DuckDuckGo is pitching its privacy-focused search engine to educational institutions following a decision by Google that links the use of AI features to the availability of Google Search. Google informed schools that while they can disable the Gemini AI, turning off other AI features would result in the loss of Google Search as well. This policy comes as educators seek more control over how artificial intelligence is integrated into the classroom.
Google defended the decision by stating it was responding to feedback from schools. The company said Gemini, Gemini Notebook, and Search will be off by default, but schools can choose to enable them individually. However, because Google Search now relies heavily on AI Overviews and a conversational AI Mode, critics argue that the distinction is minimal. Google has also developed "Guided Learning" technology intended to assist students through problem-solving steps rather than providing direct answers.
DuckDuckGo CEO Gabriel Weinberg directed schools to the company's documentation on how to switch their default search engine to DuckDuckGo, adding, "get in touch for help." The company's chief public affairs officer, Kamyl Bazbaz, criticized the move, stating, "Forcing AI on school children: how a monopolist behaves when they think people are powerless. Prove Google wrong."
DuckDuckGo maintains that it offers more flexibility than its competitor. While the company provides its own AI tools, such as the Duck.ai chat interface and an AI search assistant, it allows users to disable these features in both browser and search settings. The company also provides a dedicated website, noai.duckduckgo.com, which keeps AI-assisted answers, AI-generated images, and AI feature suggestions turned off.
This push for market share follows a reported 30% increase in DuckDuckGo app installs earlier this year, which the company attributed to users rejecting Google's AI Search integration. The competition arrives as the educational sector continues to debate the appropriate level of AI integration in learning environments.
