Ready or not, AI tools are becoming a bigger part of everyday life. Google Gemini, for example, is one of the latest innovations designed to enhance how people interact with technology. Formerly known as Bard, Google Gemini is Google’s AI chatbot and assistant, powered by advanced rapid learning and built to help users with various tasks, from answering questions and summarizing articles to generating creative content. Think of it as Google Search on steroids — except instead of just giving you links, it provides direct answers, explanations, and suggestions.
For college students, Gemini can be a game-changer. Whether you need help with conducting quick research, writing papers, or even brainstorming ideas for projects, the AI-powered assistant is designed to streamline learning. Announced back in February 2023 and launched just a month later, Google Gemini (formerly Bard) was described by Google CEO Sudhar Pichai as an “experimental conversational AI service.” It has a rapid launch in response to competition from Microsoft and OpenAI, but the swiftness led to a somewhat rocky start. However, after nearly two years of troubleshooting and refinements, Google has found a way to seamlessly integrate AI into its technical ecosystem. In fact, it’s already integrated into Google services like Docs and Gmail, so you might even be using it without realizing it. (I know it’s not just me who only recently realized this, right?)
But not everyone is a fan of AI encroaching — especially when it comes to their academic work. Some students worry about privacy and misinformation, while others simply don’t find Gemini helpful, or even view it as harmful. A major worry for college students using Google Docs in particular is whether AI integration could cause their assignments to be flagged as AI-generated content. (Many won’t soon forget the case a Marley Stevens, a college student at the University of North Georgia who was put on probation for using Grammarly, a commonly used writing assistant tool that recently had AI integrated into its software.)
So, with these concerns in mind, the big question is: Can you disable or delete Google Gemini if you don’t want to use it?
Can Google Gemini Be Disabled?
The short answer: Yes, but not completely.
Unlike traditional apps that you can uninstall, Gemini is deeply integrated into the Google ecosystem, meaning you can’t entirely “delete” it as you would remove an app from your phone. However, you can turn off certain features or limit their presence in your Google experience. That said, as Google is continuously incorporating AI into its main products, avoiding it completely will likely become more difficult over time.
Here’s how you can minimize Gemini’s role in your daily tech use:
Google Search
If Gemini-powered AI responses appear in search results, you can toggle them off in your Google Search settings.
Google Docs
Open a document, click on “Tools,” select “Preferences,” uncheck “Show Smart Reply suggestions,” and click “OK” to save your changes.
Gmail
Click on the gear icon (Settings) in the top-right corner, select “See all settings,” go to the “General” tab, and scroll down to “Smart Compose” and “Smart Reply.” Turn off “Smart Compose” by selecting “Writing Suggestions Off,” and disable “Smart Reply” by selecting “Smart Reply off,” then scroll down and click “Save Changes” to apply the settings.
Standalone Gemini App
If you’ve downloaded the Gemini app, you can uninstall it just like any other app.
How To Use Google Gemini (Responsibly) As A College Student
While Google Gemini isn’t for everyone, AI tools are becoming increasingly prominent in how we interact with technology, especially in academic settings. Whether you embrace it or turn it off, understanding how it works allows you to make informed decisions about its role in your college experience.
TBH, even if you’re hesitant about AI tools, Google Gemini has features that can be surprisingly helpful for college life. Here are a few ways it might come in handy.
Homework & Research Help
Stuck on a difficult concept for your psych review? Instead of clicking through multiple websites, Gemini can provide quick explanations, summarize key points, and suggest credible sources for further reading.
Email & Communication Support
Need to send a professional email to a professor or internship coordinator? Gemini can help refine your message, ensuring it’s clear and well-structured.
Creative Brainstorming
Are you working on a group project or a creative assignment? Gemini can help generate ideas, suggest themes, and create sample drafts to spark inspiration.