In response to user demands
Microsoft announced the availability of new tools that give Bing search engine users greater freedom to control their search experience, by allowing them to completely disable artificial intelligence features (AI Overviews) and AI chat. This step comes in recognition by the company that research has shown a clear desire among users to have the option to determine whether AI is part of every search session they conduct or not.
Ways to disable artificial intelligence features
Microsoft has provided two main methods for users who wish to return to the traditional search experience:
- Browser Extension: The company has launched an official extension for Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge browsers, which acts as a toggle to enable or disable Bing AI features at any time. It is worth noting that this extension automatically sets Bing as the default search engine for the browser to ensure it works properly.
- Operator Tag: For those who do not wish to install browser extensions, Microsoft has added a manual tag that can be added at the end of any search query. When adding -ai to the end of the search phrase, the system will disable AI features for that session only.
Why this news matters
This trend represents a shift in Microsoft's strategy, which previously integrated artificial intelligence forcibly into search interfaces. This decision reflects an awareness by major tech companies that imposing generative AI features may not suit all search patterns or user preferences, who may sometimes prefer direct traditional results without interference from language models. Although providing these features via an external extension rather than a direct setting within the Bing website raises questions about accessibility, it remains a positive step towards enhancing user privacy and freedom in choosing the technical tools they use.