Google threatens to cut search access at schools that opt out of AI

The tech giant will restrict student search access at schools rejecting AI features like AI Overviews, Google told The New York Times yesterday, adding that the tech is now “deeply integrated” into Google Search.

The company announced that K-12 schools will gain greater control over its education tools. Administrators can individually turn on or off Gemini, Gemini Notebook and Google Search. All three services will remain switched off until schools approve their use, rolling back a recent update that made them the default option.

The decision puts districts that want to limit classroom AI use in a difficult position.

Google faced criticism in August after automatically enabling its Gemini chatbot for many students using Google Classroom. Parents, teachers and child development experts raised concerns about children's safety, privacy and the impact of artificial intelligence on learning. Former FTC chair Lina Khan also accused Google of using its dominant position in school technology to pressure institutions into adopting AI.

The company said the move gives schools greater flexibility in deciding which AI tools students can access.

Google says it serves around 150 million students and teachers worldwide through Classroom, making the decision particularly significant.

Schools push back
New York City and Los Angeles have temporarily banned generative AI tools in elementary and middle schools while reviewing their safety and educational impact.

Child advocacy groups also warn that AI could encourage cheating, weaken critical thinking, and affect children's brain development. They argue that schools should consider alternatives rather than feel pressured to adopt Google’s AI products.

Google gives its AI tool a classroom makeover
The company said it's launching Guided Learning, a tutor-style AI mode that guides students through problems instead of providing direct answers.