From chatbots to search engines, AI tools are more pervasive than ever. While AI has achieved some remarkable breakthroughs in improved accessibility, medicine and quality of life, there are some definite drawbacks. Use of AI generates a massive carbon footprint and has negative implications for the job market. Furthermore, due to limited training, AI tools often exhibit bias and provide generic responses. If you are looking to limit the use of AI in your work or personal life, here are five ways to reduce the use of AI in your daily life.
1. Remove Google Gemini from Chrome
Chrome users may have noticed the recent addition of Google’s AI integration, Google Gemini, on all devices. Prior to September, use of Gemini required a subscription, but it is now an automatic addition to your browsing experience. The Gemini pop up appears at the very top of the search results and, while convenient, can often feature incorrect or biased information based on the top google results.
There are a few ways to remove Google Gemini from your search bar.
Extensions such as Ublock Origin allow you to create filters that block Gemini’s features. You can also add the phrase “-ai” to your search.
However, if you are interested in a more permanent solution, type chrome://settings/searchEngines into your search bar. Under “site search,” add a shortcut with the following details:
Name: AI Free Web
Shortcut @web
URL: {google:baseURL}search?q=%s&udm=14
Change this shortcut to your default search engine and Google Gemini will no longer appear.
2. Use Alternate Writing Tools
While it is tempting to turn to ChatGPT whenever you get stuck writing a research paper or report, there are many AI-free writing tools available that can assist.
The Academic Phrasebank: Created by Dr. John Morley at the University of Manchester, The Academic Phrasebank has a wealth of terms that you can use in your next assignment. The Phrasebank draws from carefully vetted, authentic academic sources from the University of Manchester. Their generic nature allows them to be used without fear of plagiarism.
Thesaurus.com: Thesaurus.com is the largest online thesaurus and has been around for over 25 years. Type the word for which you are seeking a synonym. You will find a definition, part of speech, and matches ranked strong to weak. The website also features helpful writing tips, cultural slang, and even fun word games.
Oxford English Dictionary (OED): The OED provides a research guide for over 500,000 words and phrases across the English language. Each entry includes multiple historical definitions, etymology, and past examples. There are also teaching resources and virtual events. Individual subscriptions are affordable. The OED can also often be accessed for free through academic institutions.
While these tools may be less instantaneous than ChatGPT, they help you, as the writer, maintain your individual voice and improve your skills rather than stunting them.
3. Disable In-App AI Features
To pause AI features in apps is simpler than you may think.
Go to settings and search for an option to disable AI ad personalization, recommendations, voice assistants, and other automated features. For example, you can disable Ad Personalization through your Google Account or AI recommendations on YouTube.
If you are concerned about AI data collection, apps like Incogni or AgainstData can assist. You can also manually inspect various platforms for this option. Websites like WordPress, Slack, Dropbox, LinkedIn, Adobe Acrobat, and more now all offer this option either through the settings page or customer service.
As AI’s online presence goes, taking the time to check how your data might be used in an important step to maintaining online privacy and safety.
4. Contract with Real Creators
Generative AI relies upon taking all sorts of material from the internet without properly crediting or compensating creators. The nature of the technology has already led to multiple copyright lawsuits and widespread debate in the artistic community.
To avoid any copyright or compensation concerns, there are many sites that allow you to directly contract with freelancers to get your task completed effectively. Websites such as Fiverr, Upwork, SimplyHired, or LinkedIn can help you find and hire a variety of freelancers. There are even websites with more specialized niches like Toptal (tech, finance), DesignHill (design), or Servicescape (Writing, editing, translation).
Contracting with freelancers not only clarifies any uncertainties about authorship and intellectual property, but it also supports workers whose livelihood may be at risk due to AI.
5. Use Your Vote
This year, over 1080 AI related bills have been introduced by lawmakers across all 50 states. However, only 118 bills have become law at a passage rate of 11%. The subject matter varies from deepfake regulation to algorithmic review to rules around AI chatbot therapists. Lawmakers are clearly impassioned to address AI concerns and with good reason. According to polling from the Pew Research Center, 50% of Americans are concerned with the increased use of AI in daily life, and 60% say they would like more control over how AI is used.
If you are interested in getting involved, check the House of Representatives website to find your local representative and their contact information. Also, be sure to make your voice heard in the 2026 midterm elections. Ensure you are registered on Vote.org.
To learn more about AI policy, check out IAPP25, a non-profit dedicated to AI governance and digital responsibility. Their website provides extensive resources to stay up to date on AI legislation in your area and more ways to get involved.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, as artificial intelligence becomes more and more integrated into everyday online tools, taking small steps to reduce the use of AI, and its influence in your life can be beneficial not only for your privacy but also preserving your authentic voice.
Think critically about what you have to gain and lose by engaging in generative AI.
By consciously choosing how to engage with AI in the digital world, you can reclaim a greater sense of agency and empowerment.