Schools blocking AI from student computers will now lose access to Google’s search feature, leaving edtech experts scratching their heads

Google will cut schools off from its search feature if they block AI tools on student computers, a policy change that has edtech experts questioning the company's motives. The move ties access to Google Search—long a staple of classroom research—to schools permitting AI use on student devices, prompting critics to argue the company is leveraging its core product to push AI adoption. The policy matters because it narrows the choices available to districts weighing AI's classroom benefits against concerns over cheating, distraction and data privacy. What to watch next is how many school systems concede on AI access versus how many accept losing Google Search or shift to alternatives.