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.
Just note that online life is so embedded in everyone, including your life, that taking away google search from a kid is like taking away transport that isn’t horse, just for the 21st century. Like wouldn’t it be funny if a company said that they won’t sell you a car you liked/could afford because you didnt want AI in it? You can’t board this bus because there’s an AI security bot in it? That’s what’s going to happen with this precedent. Be careful what you celebrate.