Google to Require Schools to Opt-In for AI Tools, Linking Access to Google Search for K-12 Student Accounts

Google has announced a significant policy change for K-12 education, making access to its AI features (Gemini, Gemini Notebook, and Gemini in Classroom) and Google Search off by default for school-managed student accounts. Administrators will now need to explicitly enable these tools, a move that has drawn criticism from some educators and policymakers. This change follows backlash regarding Google's previous default activation of its Gemini chatbot for K-12 students.