Google links search functionality to AI in schools

Google has updated its service offerings for schools, mandating that its AI-driven search features remain active for all users. Institutions that seek to limit student exposure to generative AI tools will no longer be able to utilize standard Google Search, as the company states the features are now inseparable.

While schools retain the ability to disable the standalone Gemini chatbot, the AI Overview feature—which provides summaries at the top of search results—cannot be deactivated. Google’s vice president of education, Chris Phillips, confirmed that the deep technical integration of AI within the search architecture makes offering a non-AI version of the service unfeasible.

This policy shift presents a significant challenge for educational institutions aiming to foster independent research skills among students. Moving forward, schools can select between two configurations, including one focused on guided learning, though both models require the integration of AI-based search results.