GOOGLE AI EDUCATION
Google turns off AI for schoolchildren by default
Google has said it will switch off its AI tools for schoolchildren by default, after drawing criticism for pushing artificial intelligence features to students while schools are still debating how the technology should be used in classrooms. The feature was switched on by default for students at schools that had already enabled Gemini.
Google hands schools the AI switch as learning concerns grow
Google plans to restrict access to its AI tools for K-12 students, pending administrator approval. This change follows feedback aimed at enhancing control over classroom AI usage. The company is also expanding its Guided Learning feature, which helps students solve problems systematically. Research shows mixed results regarding AI's impact on student performance and learning outcomes.
Google will cut off search access for students at schools that reject AI
The Mountain View, California, company has been facing pushback from educators, child development experts and parents over the use of its technology in schools, with the backlash heating up since it announced in August that it had turned on its Gemini chatbot for many K-12 students who use Google Classroom.
US Midterms 2026: Cost of living and government corruption are top issues, AP Voter Poll says
Voters are participating in Election Day to influence control of the U.S. House and Senate. Many electorate members express dissatisfaction with the current economic situation attributed to Trump's policies. Polls indicate a significant desire for checks and balances on the presidency from Congress. Various gubernatorial candidates, along with major ballot measures, also shape the election landscape. Early voting statistics show heightened engagement compared to previous elections and reflect voter concerns.
The AI boom may transform the economy and still destroy capital, with stranded data centres and heavy investor losses
Investments in artificial intelligence by major companies have significantly increased in recent years. The overall investment in other sectors has shown minimal change during this period. AI's potential to enhance productivity suggests that current spending may benefit various industries like healthcare and education. Concerns exist regarding potential overinvestment and its subsequent impact on the economy.
AI is changing online ads, and brands have a new fight on their hands: Report
As consumers increasingly use AI for product discovery and comparisons, brands must adjust their advertising strategies. Research shows that many users still conduct further research after receiving AI recommendations from standalone apps. Advertising platforms are introducing new tools to engage consumers within existing searches and social media.

AI companies turn to religion for moral guidance, but experts warn of oversimplification
As technology companies focus on developing powerful artificial intelligence, they are increasingly seeking religious guidance. Executives are collaborating with philosophers and faith leaders to navigate ethical challenges. Many warn that simplifying religion into rules may ignore its cultural complexities. Scholars express concern that this approach could distort certain traditions while favoring others. The ongoing dialogue raises important questions about how AI should reflect diverse moral viewpoints.

Mark Zuckerberg makes deal with Meta to help him pay billionaire tax if it passes
Mark Zuckerberg has made a deal to manage potential tax liabilities from a proposed wealth tax in California. The tax would impose a one-time 5 percent charge on billionaires' net worth. Zuckerberg's agreement allows him to maintain ownership of Meta while selling non-voting shares to finance his tax obligations. Proponents argue the tax ensures the rich contribute fairly to state revenues.

GDHS 2026 to focus on implementing AI action
Scheduled for 20-21 November 2026, the Global Digital Health Summit will take place in New Delhi, highlighting the role of artificial intelligence in healthcare. A key feature, The CORTEX Test, will evaluate decision-making from AI, doctors, and collaborative methods.

AI responsibility must be natively built & community-driven: Google DeepMind’s Lila Ibrahim
As chief AI readiness officer, Lila Ibrahim mandate is to help prepare society for increasingly capable AI by bringing together governments, businesses, researchers, and communities to understand how the technology should be developed and deployed.

Pitched 2 ideas to PM Modi in 90 seconds on Chennai Metro: Who is AI startup founder Tejas Sudarshan & what did he propose?
Chennai-based startup founder Tejas Parthasarathi Sudarshan pitched two artificial intelligence ideas to Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a Chennai Metro journey, getting around 90 seconds to present his proposals. The Winsen Labs founder suggested connecting students with real-world government projects and creating a unified AI-powered platform to simplify access to public services. He was among 17 startup founders shortlisted by SPI Chennai for the interaction.

Google expands AI push in India with $15 million MSME funding, crop research and teacher training
In a remarkable move, Google has embarked on extensive AI initiatives in India, primarily focused on boosting sectors like agriculture, education, and small enterprises. The tech giant has allocated $15 million to uplift micro, small, and medium businesses while collaborating with institutions to create AI-enhanced crops that can withstand climate changes, benefitting global researchers. Furthermore, thousands of teachers are being equipped with AI tools to enrich their lesson plans.

Big Tech wants to build more AI data centres across America. Why local communities are pushing back against the costs of the AI revolution
Cities across America are imposing temporary moratoriums on data centre approvals to address infrastructural concerns. Local governments are assessing the impacts of these projects on electricity, water, and public resources. Environmental lawsuits are complicating the development of AI infrastructure further, leading to delays and increased costs. Some technology companies are moving towards greater transparency with local communities for better engagement.

How AI is Powering the Future of Citizen Services
India is a diverse land, and reflecting the country’s linguistic diversity has been a long-held ambition for technology, AI included. Now, with Google’s initiatives powering startups like CoRover, AI’s inclusion of local dialects looks more achievable than ever. Counting over a trillion conversations in Indic languages thus far, CoRover is making inspiring progress.

Tech Mahindra Q2 Results: Net profit jumps 33% YoY to Rs 1,586 crore; co declares Rs 15/share dividend, 1:1 bonus issue
Tech Mahindra Q2 Results: Along with the earnings, Tech Mahindra's board declared an interim dividend of Rs 15 per equity share of face value Rs 5 each, equivalent to 300%, for the financial year 2026-27. It also approved a 1:1 bonus issue, under which shareholders will receive one bonus equity share for every existing equity share held, subject to the applicable terms and conditions.

Inside Google's Gemini safety strategy: Protecting children, verifying age and tackling AI misinformation
To tackle rising child safety concerns linked with AI, Google is taking proactive steps as children engage with chatbots. The focus is on ensuring age-appropriate interactions, encouraging parental oversight, and promoting responsible AI use. The upcoming Gemini platform will feature age assurance technology to evaluate users' ages based on their behavior.

World's strongest passports: UAE leads, US ranks 10th; where does India stand?
The United Arab Emirates leads the 2026 Passport Index with a Mobility Score of 182 and access to 182 destinations. India stands at the 72nd position with a Mobility Score of 70, highlighting limited travel access. The rankings reflect significant disparities in international mobility for different nationalities.

VCs clip all love & cash on agentic AI
As personal AI agents transform the consumer internet, Indian VCs are shifting the focus from attention-grabbing apps to intent-driven assistants, writes Himanshi Lohchab. From AI financial advisers, health companions to personal concierges, investors are betting that the next generation of consumer businesses will be built around intent, personalisation and delegation, rather than attention and app engagement.

Google faces backlash against India data centre
Handcuffs encircle Google's logo on one campaign poster, while another warns that people "cannot drink data", as opposition mounts to the tech giant's planned AI mega-facility in India. Still, water use worries residents, especially given plans for Vizag to become a tech megahub.
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