Google is introducing new updates to its education tools. For the first time, students under 18 will gain access to NotebookLM.
At the same time, teachers will receive more features in Google Classroom through the Gemini AI suite.
These tools aim to enhance learning, improve teaching efficiency, and personalize the classroom experience.
What Students Can Expect from NotebookLM
NotebookLM is a research and note-taking tool. It uses AI to turn documents into study materials.
Students can upload class content and receive summaries, study guides, or podcast-style audio explanations. These features help simplify complex information.
Google confirms that NotebookLM will soon be available to users under 18 for more independent study.
They can review material at their own pace and reinforce classroom lessons with interactive tools.
Teachers can also create custom “Gems” (small AI agents trained on specific topics). These Gems provide students with tailored information and support.
For example, a science teacher can design a Gem focused on ecosystems. Students can then ask the Gem questions and receive relevant, curriculum-based responses.
Gemini AI Arrives in Google Classroom
Gemini is Google’s generative AI assistant, and it now plays a central role in Google Classroom.
Educators using Google Workspace will see a new Gemini tab in their interface. With it, they can brainstorm lesson ideas, draft assignments, or create quizzes.
These tasks often take time, but Gemini cuts down the lengthy process. For schools using the Education Plus Edition, Gemini can also deliver AI-generated audio lessons.
This is especially useful for auditory learners who benefit from listening to material rather than reading it.
Gemini also supports a new feature called “Help Me Create a Form.” This tool helps teachers quickly build surveys, assessments, or feedback forms.
It reduces repetitive work and allows teachers to focus more on student engagement.
New Tools
Google has also added an Analytics tab to Google Classroom to help teachers track student performance.
It highlights students who are improving, falling behind, or missing assignments. This helps with early detection for faster intervention.
In addition, Class Tools are now available to help teachers manage students’ Chromebooks in real time.
During lessons, teachers can share presentations, minimize distractions, and push content directly to screens.
This streamlines classroom activity and reduces time spent switching between tabs or platforms.
New Chromebooks
Google is also expanding its hardware lineup. More than 12 new Chromebook models are on the way.
This includes standard Chromebooks, Chromebook Plus, and devices using Intel’s Open Pluggable Specification (OPS). These new tools are designed for both students and teachers.
One confirmed release is the Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14, which is available starting today.
Google also notes new models from Asus and other partners that have been optimized for AI tools and classroom display use.
A Unified AI Tier for Education
To support these updates, Google is unifying its AI tiers. The base level for education accounts will now be called Gemini Education.
This tier gives educators access to Gemini 2.5 Pro models, with higher usage limits than personal accounts.
Additionally, existing Gemini Education and Gemini Education Premium add-ons will now be known as Google AI Pro for Education.
