FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Nov. 3, 2026
Contact: Ashwin Verghese, [email protected], 508-263-0289
Statement on Google’s ‘Clarification’ on Search and AI in Schools
Fairplay, the nation’s leading nonprofit fighting to protect kids from the dangers of Big Tech and AI, released the following statement today.
Fairplay Executive Director Josh Golin said: “It’s clear that Google underestimated the rising parent backlash against AI and EdTech, and now it’s scrambling in the face of a PR nightmare. But this ‘clarification’ doesn’t appear to change the fact that students won’t be able to use Google Search without being subjected to Google’s AI. The company is clearly banking on Search’s popularity to lure schools into consenting to use Google’s AI.
“Schools shouldn’t be fooled by this bait and switch. The good news is that it appears that Gemini, Gemini Notebook, and Search will now be off by default. Schools should leave them off, because Google’s AI tools aren’t safe for kids and undermine learning and critical thinking.”
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About Fairplay
Fairplay is the leading nonprofit committed to helping children thrive in an increasingly commercialized, screen-obsessed culture, and the only organization dedicated to ending marketing to children. Fairplay works to enhance children’s well-being by eliminating the exploitative and harmful business practices of marketers and Big Tech. Learn more at www.fairplayforkids.org.