Google Backs Down on Cutting Search for Schools Limiting AI

Google has retreated after a fierce backlash to a plan that would have switched off Search for schools refusing its AI tools. The company had told institutions using its K-12 software they would lose access unless they opted in, with education vice president Chris Phillips arguing that Search and AI are deeply integrated.

Critics were quick and loud. Senator Bernie Sanders called the approach extortion, Senator Richard Blumenthal said Google cares more about putting Gemini in classrooms than helping students, and former FTC chair Lina Khan said the company remains unchastened despite antitrust findings. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani said no corporation should control how children are taught.

Google responded by saying Gemini, Gemini Notebook and Search will now be off by default, with schools able to enable each individually. It is also building a Guided Learning feature for student accounts that walks pupils through problems rather than handing over answers. The row shows how sensitive AI in classrooms has become for parents and regulators.