Use Built-In Android Settings to Limit Ads
Advertisements are everywhere on our smartphones today. While some of them are helpful and relevant, many users feel overwhelmed by the number of targeted ads they receive. Thankfully, Android offers built-in features that can help you manage and limit personalized ads without the need for third-party apps. If you’re concerned about privacy or simply want fewer ads tailored to your activity, this guide is here to help. Let’s walk through the right settings and options step by step so you can take control of your ad experience.
Understand How Ads Work on Android
Before diving into the settings, it’s useful to understand how ads are delivered on Android. Most of the ads you see are served based on your activity—your location, app usage, search history, and even how often you open certain apps. Google uses an advertising ID to help advertisers tailor ads specifically for you. This ID is unique to your device and helps create a profile of your interests.
However, you are not stuck with this situation. Android provides options to limit this kind of tracking and even reset your advertising ID. This does not stop ads completely, but it will reduce how personalized and intrusive they are.
Access the Advertising ID Settings
To begin, open your Android phone and follow these steps to locate the advertising settings:
Go to Settings
Scroll down and tap on Google
From there, tap on Ads
This menu controls how Google uses your information for advertising purposes. In most Android versions, this section includes settings like “Opt out of Ads Personalization” and the option to “Reset advertising ID.”
Opt Out of Ads Personalization
Once you’re in the Ads settings, toggle on the option labeled “Opt out of Ads Personalization.” What does this mean? It tells Google and other apps that you do not want to receive ads based on your personal information and app activity. It’s important to note that this won’t stop ads entirely. You’ll still see ads, but they will be more generic and less tailored to your interests.
Enabling this setting sends a signal to all participating advertisers to stop using your advertising ID for tracking. It’s one of the most direct ways to limit personalized ads on your device and promote more privacy.
Reset Your Advertising ID
Another smart step is to reset your advertising ID. Over time, your advertising ID collects a profile based on your behavior. By resetting it, you’re basically wiping the slate clean. To do this, go to the same Ads section under Google settings and tap “Reset advertising ID.” A new ID will be generated and any profile associated with the old one will be discarded.
This is especially useful if you’ve recently opted out of personalized ads or if you’ve noticed that the ads you see feel overly specific. Resetting the ID prevents companies from continuing to use your old behavior profile.
Turn Off Ad Personalization in Google Account
In addition to device settings, you can further manage ads by adjusting preferences directly in your Google Account. Here’s how:
Open your device’s browser and go to adssettings.google.com
Sign in to your Google account if prompted
Turn off “Ad Personalization”
When this setting is turned off, Google won’t use your personal information—like your activity on Google services—to personalize ads. This applies across all devices where you are signed in, not just your phone.
You can also view and delete interests that Google has associated with you by clicking on the “Your interests” section. This is a great way to see what topics have been used to show you ads and remove anything that feels inaccurate or unnecessary.
Manage App Permissions to Limit Data Access
Another layer of ad control lies in app permissions. Many apps request access to location, contacts, or other data that can be used to target you with ads. You can reduce this by reviewing permissions:
Open Settings
Go to Apps & notifications
Choose See all apps
Tap on an app, then select Permissions
Here, you can disable access to sensitive information like your location or contacts if it’s not essential to the app’s function. This reduces the amount of data available for ad profiling.
Enable Private DNS or Ad Blockers (Optional)
While not part of the core Android settings, you can go a step further by using the Private DNS feature. This allows you to use DNS providers that block ads at the network level.
Go to Settings > Network & internet > Private DNS
Select Private DNS provider hostname
Enter a provider like dns.adguard.com or dns.familyshield.opendns.com
Save and exit
This doesn’t affect your advertising ID, but it can reduce the number of ads you see, especially in web browsers and some apps. Use this carefully as it may interfere with how certain websites load.
Conclusion
Taking control of your ad experience on Android is not as complicated as it might seem. With just a few changes in your phone settings and Google account, you can significantly reduce the personalization of ads and improve your privacy. These built-in tools are free, effective, and easy to use—no advanced tech skills needed.
By opting out of ad personalization, resetting your advertising ID, managing your Google ad settings, and restricting unnecessary app permissions, you are already one step ahead in protecting your data. Add an optional layer with Private DNS, and you’re creating a well-rounded shield against intrusive advertising.