Unlocking Google Workspace: Why You Can’t Turn Off Gemini by Default

Unlocking the Power of Gemini: A Guide for Google Workspace Admins

As Google Workspace subscribers, you’re now able to harness the capabilities of Gemini, a powerful AI-driven feature set. However, you may have noticed that disabling these features is not as straightforward as you’d like. In this article, we’ll explore the hidden world of Gemini settings and provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to manage access to these features.

What’s New in Gemini?

In mid-January, Google announced a price increase for Workspace, which includes Gemini AI features by default. These features are now available across various Workspace apps, including:

• Gmail: Side panel (Q&A), Help me write, Contextual Smart Reply, Summarize
• Drive: Side panel
• Docs: Side panel, Help me write, Help me create
• Sheets: Side panel, Help me organize, Enhanced Smart Fill
• Slides: Side panel, Help me create an image, remove background
• Meet: Takes notes for me, Create background, Studio Look/Sound
• Chat: Side panel

While these features are certainly useful, not everyone may want to use them. Unfortunately, the ability to turn off Gemini AI features appears to be hidden behind a conversation with Google support.

Accessing Gemini Settings

According to Google’s support page, the ability to manage access to Gemini features is only available to Enterprise Standard and Enterprise Plus accounts. However, a number of admins have reported that these settings are not available, even on Enterprise accounts.

The good news is that Google support representatives have the ability to enable a new menu of settings, which can be used to turn off Gemini on the Google Workspace Admin Console. This is a crucial step in managing access to these features.

Tips for Managing Gemini Settings

To access the Gemini settings, follow these steps:

1. Contact Google support and request the ability to manage Gemini features.
2. Once enabled, navigate to the Google Workspace Admin Console.
3. Look for the "Gemini" menu, which should now be available.
4. Use this menu to turn off Gemini features as needed.

What’s Next for Gemini?

Google will be promoting Gemini features in Workspace as part of its 2025 Super Bowl advertising. With the power of Gemini at your fingertips, you’ll be able to streamline your workflow and boost productivity.

Conclusion

While the ability to disable Gemini AI features may seem hidden, it’s not impossible to access. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be able to manage access to these features and unlock the full potential of Gemini.