How to Hide AI Images in DuckDuckGo

How to Hide AI Images in DuckDuckGo

Learn how DuckDuckGo’s new “hide AI-generated images” filter puts you in charge of what appears in image search results.  No tricks, just clarity.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor 

July 17, 2025

Ever feel like you’re swimming through a sea of synthetic visuals when you just want a real photo?

Here's a Cool Tip:  Filter AI Search Images with DuckDuckGo.

DuckDuckGo’s latest move gives users a practical way to filter AI-generated images from search results. 

That means less guess‑work, more relevance especially for business professionals, educators, or anyone who needs authenticity at a glance.

What You'll Gain

• More accurate image results when you need legitimacy
• Reduced distraction from AI-generated visuals
• Customizable search experience that respects your preferences

Feature Explanation

DuckDuckGo added a simple toggle in the Images tab: “AI images: show” or “AI images: hide.” 

They built this using open‑source blocklists such as uBlockOrigin’s “nuclear” list and the Huge AI Blocklist from uBlacklist to detect and filter AI content. 

While it doesn’t catch everything, it noticeably reduces synthetic clutter. 

You can also set a persistent preference in Search Settings or use the no‑AI shortcut: noai.duckduckgo.com.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions

Here's how to do it.

Microsoft Web/Desktop

1. Visit duckduckgo.com and run a search.
2. Switch to the Images tab.
3. Locate the AI images dropdown near the filter bar.
4. Choose hide to remove detected AI images.
5. Optional: Go to Settings → Search Settings → Hide AI‑Generated Images → On to set it by default.

fig. 1 - Example of How to Hide AI Images in DuckDuckGo

iOS / Android

1. Open the DuckDuckGo app (iOS / Android) and search.
2. Tap Images at the top.
3. Use the “AI images” dropdown to select Hide.
4. For persistent use: Visit Settings (≡ menu) → Search → Hide AI‑generated images and set to On.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Custom control: Decide if AI content shows, no blanket policy.
• Quick toggle: One click in Images tab or a bookmark link.
• Transparency: Uses recognized open‑source blocklists.

Cons

• Not 100% accurate: New or obscure AI tools might slip through.
• Maintains some manual work: You must toggle the filter or bookmark it.
• Limited to images: No equivalent for videos or text yet.

Real‑World Examples

Teacher prepping slides: Sarah swapped “AI images: show” to “hide” to ensure only authentic photos in her history presentation.

Marketing team vetting stock art: The filter saved time by excluding AI-generated red-herring visuals.

Research analyst Michael found it helpful when pulling trustworthy diagrams, no fake AI diagrams cluttering results.

Who Can Use It

Available now to all DuckDuckGo users, no beta opt‑in required. 

Whether on desktop or mobile apps, the filter is accessible to anyone using DuckDuckGo. Bookmark shortcuts work universally.

Score

Criterion Score (0–10) Justification

Value 8

Tangibly improves image search quality by cutting out synthetic clutter.

Usability 9

One‑click toggle, no steep learning curve.

Wow Factor 7

Simple yet effective, small feature, big impact.

Total: 24/30 👍 Good. Worth adopting for most users.

Key Takeaways

DuckDuckGo’s AI‑image filter delivers on its promise: real control over what shows in image searches. 

It’s easy to use, respects your preferences, and cuts through AI clutter—though it’s not infallible. 

If you value authenticity at work or in education, this is worth a click.

Try It Yourself

Give it a spin: run an image search with the filter set to hide, and watch your results become clearer. 

Share the tip, comment your experience, and subscribe for more practical tech hacks.

READ MORE

• DuckDuckGo AI: A New Era of Privacy-First Search
  
• DuckDuckGo AI: The Smarter Search That Protects Your Privacy
  
• Search Sites with DuckDuckGo !Bangs
  

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Rodger Mansfield, a seasoned tech expert, is the mastermind behind www.OneCoolTip.com where he serves as both writer and editor. With a keen eye for simplifying complex tech, Rodger delivers practical advice that empowers readers to navigate the digital world with confidence. Dive into www.OneCoolTip.com for a treasure trove of savvy tips and tricks that keep you one step ahead in tech.

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