How do I get Google to stop showing previous searches on Android?

Answered by John Hunt

To stop Google from showing your previous searches on Android, you can follow these steps:

1. Open the Google settings page: On your Android device, go to the Settings app and scroll down until you find the Google settings. Tap on it to open the settings page.

2. Tap on the “Search” option: In the Google settings page, you will see various options related to search settings and preferences. Look for the “Search” option and tap on it to access the search settings.

3. Navigate to the “Privacy & accounts” section: Once you are in the Search settings, scroll down until you find the “Privacy & accounts” section. This section contains various privacy-related settings for your Google account.

4. Disable the “Show recent searches” option: Within the “Privacy & accounts” section, you will find the “Show recent searches” setting. By default, this option is enabled, and Google shows your recent searches. To stop this, simply uncheck the box next to the “Show recent searches” option.

5. Confirm your changes: After unchecking the box, your changes will be automatically saved. You can now exit the settings page.

By following these steps, you have successfully disabled the feature that shows your previous searches on Google. This means that when you perform a search using Google, it won’t display your recent search history. Please note that this only applies to the Google app and not other browsers or search engines.

It’s worth mentioning that disabling this feature can have implications for your search experience. Google uses your search history to personalize search results and provide relevant suggestions. If you disable the option, you may lose some of these personalized features.

Personally, I find it helpful to have my recent searches visible as it allows me to quickly access previous queries and revisit websites or information I need. However, if you value privacy or simply don’t want your search history to be easily accessible, disabling the “Show recent searches” option is a viable solution.

In conclusion, to prevent Google from showing your previous searches on Android, go to the Google settings page, tap on “Search,” navigate to the “Privacy & accounts” section, and uncheck the box next to “Show recent searches.” Keep in mind the potential trade-off between personalized search results and privacy when making this decision.