News in short
- Microsoft Bing AI Search Choice extension lets users switch AI-generated answers on or off.
- The browser extension is available in preview for Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge.
- Installing it also sets Bing as the browser’s default search engine.
- Users can add the -ai operator to an individual Bing query to hide AI answers.
- Microsoft says the extension’s preference applies across Bing searches.
Microsoft is giving Bing users more control over AI-generated search answers. Its new Bing AI Search Choice extension lets people switch AI features on or off, depending on how they want to browse the web.
The extension is currently available in preview for Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge. The move addresses users who want the convenience of AI summaries but still prefer traditional search results for some queries.
Microsoft Bing extension adds an AI search toggle
Microsoft introduced the Bing AI Search Choice extension in a blog post. Once installed, it adds a toggle that lets users choose whether Bing displays AI-generated answers. Users can keep AI features enabled for quick summaries or switch them off to see conventional search results.
Microsoft says the selected preference applies across Bing searches. However, there is one important trade-off. Installing the extension also changes the browser’s default search engine to Bing.
The extension remains in preview. Microsoft says it plans to refine the experience based on feedback from users.
How to turn off Bing AI answers without an extension
Users who do not want another browser extension can use a search operator instead. Microsoft says adding -ai at the end of a Bing query excludes AI-generated answers for that search.
For example, entering why is the sky blue -ai should return traditional search results without the AI-generated answer. This method works on an individual query and does not require users to change their default search engine.
The two options serve different needs. The extension offers a persistent preference across Bing searches, while the operator gives users control over specific queries.
Why Microsoft is giving users a choice
Search engines increasingly place AI summaries and conversational answers alongside traditional links. These features can save time, especially when users need a quick explanation. However, some people prefer opening individual websites, comparing sources and checking information themselves.
Microsoft’s new controls acknowledge that one search format may not suit every query. Users can choose AI assistance when it helps and return to a conventional results page when they want to explore sources directly.
The change also arrives as competition around AI-powered search grows. Google continues to expand AI Mode and AI Overviews, while other platforms experiment with conversational discovery. Read our coverage of Google’s expansion of ads in AI search for another look at how search experiences are changing.
For now, Bing users can try the extension through the Microsoft Edge Add-ons preview listing. They can also read Microsoft’s announcement for details about the new controls.
