How To Disable Google Autocomplete with Trending Searches In Chrome?

As more people use the internet, personalized online experiences have become increasingly important, and search engines are no exception. 

Google, being one of the most popular search engines, offers a feature called Trending Searches. 

This functionality provides users with real-time insights into what’s currently popular and widely searched, helping them stay updated on the latest news and trending topics.

Why You Might Want to Turn Off Trending Searches on Google?

There are several personal reasons why someone might want to turn off Google’s Trending Searches.

What motivates one person to disable this feature may not apply to another, as it often comes down to individual browsing habits and preferences.  

Below are some typical motivations for removing Trending Searches from search results:

Privacy-Related Concerns

If you’re mindful about your digital privacy, the Trending Searches feature may feel intrusive.

It compiles data based on widely searched topics, which can lead to broader concerns about what other user behaviors or preferences might be monitored and stored.

Unwanted Distractions

When you’re trying to search for something specific, the presence of trending topics can be a nuisance.

These popular suggestions can easily divert your focus, tempting you to explore unrelated subjects and ultimately making your search less efficient.

Improved Search Relevance

Disabling Trending Searches can help streamline your results. Without being influenced by viral or popular content, the search engine can better tailor outcomes based on your personal queries, making it easier to find exactly what you’re looking for.

By considering these reasons, you can determine if a more private, distraction-free, and tailored search experience is more important than staying updated on what others are searching for.

How to Turn Off Google’s Trending Searches on Desktop?  

If you want a more tailored browsing experience, you can change your settings to stop Google from showing Trending Searches.

Whether you’re using Chrome, Safari, or the Google App on your desktop, here are the steps to disable this feature.

Turning Off Trending Searches in Google Chrome

Google Chrome is a popular browser that works closely with Google’s services.

To remove Trending Searches from your browsing experience in Chrome, follow these steps:

1. Launch Google Chrome.
2. Click the three-dot menu icon in the upper-right corner.
3. Choose “Settings” from the dropdown list.
4. Scroll down and select “Search engine”.
5. Click on “Manage search engines”.
6. Find the setting labeled “Autocomplete with trending searches”.
7. Switch the toggle off to disable the feature.

Removing Trending Searches in Safari

Mac users browsing with Safari can turn off trending suggestions this way:

1. Open Safari.
2. In the top menu bar, click “Safari” and then choose “Preferences”.
3. Navigate to the “Search” tab.
4. Uncheck the box that says “Include search engine suggestions”.

Disabling Trending Searches in the Google App (Desktop Version)

For those using the Google App on a desktop:

1. Open the Google App.
2. Click your profile icon in the top-right corner.
3. Go to “Settings”.
4. Under the “General” section, locate “Autocomplete with trending searches”.
5. Toggle this setting off.

Disabling Trending Searches on Mobile Devices

Android Devices

For Android users who want to disable Trending Searches in the Google App:

1. Open the Google app on your Android device.
2. Tap the ‘More’ option (three horizontal lines) at the bottom-right of the screen.
3. Go to ‘Settings’.
4. In ‘General’, find ‘Autocomplete with trending searches’ and toggle it off.

If you’re using a browser like Firefox or Samsung Internet on Android, follow these steps:

• Firefox: Open the menu, go to ‘Settings’, select ‘Search’, and uncheck ‘Show search suggestions’.

• Samsung Internet: Tap the menu icon, go to ‘Settings’, then ‘Privacy and security’, and turn off ‘Get search suggestions’.

iPhone Devices

To disable Trending Searches on iPhone:

1. Open the Google app on your iPhone.
2. Tap the ‘More’ option at the bottom-right.
3. Select ‘Settings’, then go to ‘Search settings’.
4. Toggle off the option for ‘Autocomplete with trending searches’.

For Safari and Chrome:

• Safari: Go to ‘Settings’, tap ‘Safari’, and toggle off ‘Search Engine Suggestions’.

• Chrome: Open Chrome, tap the three dots at the bottom, go to ‘Settings > Search Engine > Manage search engines’, and disable ‘Show trending searches’.

Troubleshooting Issues with Disabling Trending Searches

Sometimes, you might encounter issues when trying to turn off Trending Searches. Below are some common problems and troubleshooting steps:

Common Issues

• The preference to turn off Trending Searches doesn’t stay saved after changing the setting.  

• The option to disable Trending Searches isn’t available in the settings menu.  

• Trending topics still show up even after the feature has been turned off.  

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Restart Your Browser or App: Close and reopen the browser or app to ensure the setting is applied.
2. Update Browser or App: Check for updates in the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play Store (Android) to ensure you’re using the latest version.
3. Clear Cache and Cookies: Clear your browser’s cache and cookies, then try again to turn off Trending Searches.

If issues persist, consult support forums or contact customer service for your browser or app.

Conclusion

Taking control of your online experience is crucial, and turning off Trending Searches on Google is a simple way to customize how you interact with search results. 

Whether you’re aiming for a distraction-free environment, protecting your privacy, or ensuring more personalized results, you have the power to make the experience work for you.

Remember, whether you use Google on desktop or mobile, it’s easy to adjust settings to match your preferences and ensure a more focused, private search experience.

FAQs

What are Trending Searches on Google?

Trending Searches show the most popular topics currently being searched for on Google in real-time. It helps users stay updated on the latest trends and news.

Can I disable Trending Searches on Google?

Yes, you can disable Trending Searches. The process varies depending on the device or browser you’re using, but you can manage these settings in the preferences or settings menu.

Why should I disable Trending Searches?

Common reasons include privacy concerns, avoiding distractions, and wanting a more personalized search experience without external influences like popular trends.