How do turn off Essential Search and other AI features?

NakaraAra

Hello, I got the 4.0 Update like 1 week ago for my Phone 2 and after the device reboot I got greeted by Essential Search. Its this feature where you can let it search your phone for files and images.

However, I dont want this feature. I didn’t gave it access to photos and files etc. but after I did a normal reboot today it suddenly turned on.

Before the reboot everytime I wanted to use the app search an annoying banner popped up and suggested to turn Essential Search on. I always clicked “later” because there was no “never” button.

I dont need this feature and I absolutley dont want to give it permissons to search for my files.

I couldn’t find any way to turn it off in my settings app. Please help.

SiddheshShanbhag

Long press on the home screen > customisation > layout > search bar > no search bar/web search(based on what you prefer) > apply.

Before that, while essential search is on, tap on the essential search bar > three dots in the bottom right > search result settings > there will be a menu of apps for which you can enable/disable essential search, disable all of them if you want the essential search feature to be completely off.

Done.

NakaraAra

SiddheshShanbhag Thank You.