Google turns off AI tools by default for school pupils

Google has announced it will disable its AI tools by default for students in K-12 schools worldwide, following criticism over its introduction of AI features to students while schools debate the technology's use in classrooms. The changes, announced in a blog post, will roll out globally, starting in the United States. Chris Phillips, Google's vice president for education, explained that Google's search and AI features are deeply integrated, meaning that if schools ban AI, students will lose access to search as well.

The decision comes as concerns grow over the integration of AI into schoolwork and the role of technology companies in dictating how students use the tools. Google provides educational applications and Chromebooks to US schools, with over 150 million students worldwide using Google Classroom. Critics, including New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani, have accused the company of using its monopoly power to force AI into public schools.