Google is enhancing its Gemini AI tools aimed at schools with a series of new features designed for students, teachers, and administrators. Under the banner of Gemini for Education, this update introduces AI-powered resources to Google Workspace for Education at no additional cost, while maintaining built-in privacy protections and administrative controls. The rollout utilizes the capabilities of Gemini 2.5 Pro, offering premium AI features, larger usage limits, and enterprise-level data protection. Importantly, these tools are now integrated as common services in Workspace for Education, allowing schools to manage them alongside other Google offerings.
One of the significant updates is that Gemini in Classroom is now free for all users of Workspace for Education. Over 30 new features are being implemented to support educators in lesson planning, such as automated vocabulary lists that include definitions and context sentences, facilitating customized teaching for diverse learning needs. Furthermore, Google is broadening its NotebookLM, a note-taking and research tool, which already features Audio Overviews. It is now adding Video Overviews, allowing users to convert written content into brief video presentations.
Educators using the paid Workspace with the Gemini add-on can also create short videos using Google Vids, and Gemini in Forms will now have the capability to automatically generate surveys or quizzes based on files stored in Google Drive. Students will benefit from Gemini Canvas, which allows them to create personalized quizzes for studying. Currently restricted to users aged 18 and older, this tool will soon be available for younger students. Gemini is also incorporating visual aids like diagrams to simplify complex topics.
Instructors will soon be able to assign custom AI agents, referred to as Gems, and materials in NotebookLM directly through Google Classroom. These functionalities will also be compatible with Schoology Learning and Canvas platforms. To ensure student safety, Google is implementing AI literacy training, enhancing content filters for users under 18, and enforcing stricter privacy protocols. Data from education users will not be utilized for training Google’s models, and NotebookLM will be accessible to younger students shortly.
Administrators can oversee these tools via the Admin console, monitoring usage and examining conversations within the Gemini app in their domain. The platform has received the Common Sense Media Privacy Seal, potentially increasing confidence among educational institutions. While these updates are aimed at saving time for teachers and enhancing learning for students, their effectiveness will ultimately depend on how schools choose to implement and oversee them. Expanding tools free of charge for education is a positive move, as it presents students with more opportunities for learning and application.