DuckDuckGo targets schools following backlash over Google's AI policies

DuckDuckGo is actively targeting the education sector as an alternative to Google. The move follows Google’s recent announcement that schools wishing to disable AI features like Gemini will lose access to Google Search entirely. This ultimatum has drawn criticism from educators and privacy advocates, providing a window for competitors to capture market share.

Historically, Google has maintained a dominant position in schools, with millions of students and faculty relying on Chromebooks and Google Classroom. DuckDuckGo, which distinguishes itself through a focus on user privacy and limited data collection, is positioning its service as a viable replacement for institutions wary of mandatory AI integration.

DuckDuckGo CEO Gabriel Weinberg has publicly invited schools to reach out for assistance in migrating their default search engines. Meanwhile, Kamyl Bazbaz, the company’s chief public affairs officer, criticized Google’s policy, framing the requirement as a form of institutional overreach.