What Are AI Overviews?

Google has integrated AI‑generated summaries, known as AI Overviews, into its search results. These overviews appear at the top of the page and provide a brief answer or summary drawn from multiple sources. The feature was introduced in 2024 and is intended to give users quick answers without clicking through to individual sites.

Why Users Want to Hide Them

Some users find AI Overviews intrusive or inaccurate, preferring to see the traditional list of website links. The overviews can sometimes contain errors, prompting readers to verify information by visiting the original sources. For those who value a minimalist search layout, the AI content can feel like an unwanted middleman.

The Simple “–ai” Trick

Google’s search syntax includes a function that removes topics from results when a dash‑prefixed term is added. By appending any dash‑prefixed string—commonly “–ai”—to a search query, the AI Overview is suppressed. For example, typing “best coffee shops –ai” will return the normal list of links without the AI summary at the top.

The method works in most desktop browsers, such as Chrome and Safari on a computer. Users can also use variations like “–1” or “–z” to achieve the same effect, as the specific characters after the dash are not important.

Using the Web Filter

Another way to view only website links is to click the “Web” tab, which may be hidden under a “More” button below the search bar. Selecting this filter forces the results page to show links without the AI Overview. This approach works alongside the dash trick and provides an alternative for those who prefer a visual button.

Limitations on Mobile Platforms

The dash method is less consistent on mobile apps. On iOS versions of Chrome and Safari, the AI Overview often still appears despite the added dash term. Android devices, particularly Google Pixel phones, have shown better results with the trick, but the experience can vary.

Alternatives to Google Search

Users who want to avoid AI Overviews altogether can switch to search engines that allow toggling AI features, such as DuckDuckGo or Brave. These services let users enable or disable AI summaries in their settings without needing to change browsers.

Conclusion

While Google has not provided a permanent toggle for AI Overviews, the “–ai” syntax offers a quick, repeatable way to hide the summaries in most desktop searches. Combined with the “Web” filter, users can regain a classic link‑only view of search results. For those seeking a more consistent experience across devices, exploring alternative search engines may be the best long‑term solution.

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