Google announced Tuesday morning that it would switch off AI products by default for students in schools that use the technology giant’s education software. But those schools that forgo its AI services would also be cut off from Google Search.
The move comes after mounting criticism from advocacy groups and senators about the spread of Google’s AI services available in classrooms. Until Tuesday, its AI products — branded under the Gemini moniker — were automatically activated for schools using Google Classroom.
Google said Tuesday’s move would also cut off students’ access to Google Search if schools do not enable Gemini, given AI’s growing integration into the company’s search products.
I see they’re well into the “Are we out of touch? No it’s our customers that are wrong” stage.
They know exactly what they’re doing.
Google search is too embedded in most things for schools to forego it. They’re strong arming the schools to use AI, while giving the illusion of choice
Why would google search be embedded? Like change the bookmark to ddg and you’re done right?
do Chromebooks even allow changing the homepage? also many schools use search “by Google” for searching their websites.
Google Workspace/Education tools might be, but search is a commodity now and Google’s is terrible now.
But yeah, I still think you’re right upon reflection.