Google to cut off Search for K-12 accounts unless schools enable its AI tools, triggering backlash

Google will disable AI features and Search by default on K-12 student accounts, requiring school administrators to opt in to Gemini and related tools. The shift, framed as giving schools control over classroom AI, drew immediate criticism from officials and advocates who said the company is leveraging its search dominance to push adoption. New York City officials and former FTC chair Lina Khan accused Google of exploiting market power, while children’s and teachers’ groups warned of privacy and commercialization risks. Google says roughly 150 million students and teachers use its education products; the change follows backlash over the firm’s earlier move to activate Gemini for younger students.

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