NEWS · COMPANIES · #3054
Google to set Gemini, Gemini Notebook and AI-powered Search off by default for student accounts starting early 2027
Starting in early 2027 Google will make Gemini, Gemini Notebook and AI features in Google Search off by default for student accounts; schools can enable each feature individually but Google says a version of Search without AI will no longer be offered. The change follows backlash after AI was turned on by default in Classroom and comes as major districts had already restricted student-facing AI tools.
KEY POINTS
- Starting in early 2027 Google will make Gemini, Gemini Notebook and AI features in Google Search off by default for student accounts; schools can enable each feature individually but Google says a version of Search without AI will no longer be offered.
- The change follows backlash after AI was turned on by default in Classroom and comes as major districts had already restricted student-facing AI tools.
- Because Google dominates K–12 tooling in the U.S., forcing AI-integrated Search as the only option effectively compels schools to adopt AI and limits their ability to use non-AI search, with implications for pedagogy, privacy, and procurement.
WHY IT MATTERS
Because Google dominates K–12 tooling in the U.S., forcing AI-integrated Search as the only option effectively compels schools to adopt AI and limits their ability to use non-AI search, with implications for pedagogy, privacy, and procurement.