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Disabling Google Chrome AI Mode for Student Devices

Updated

To support meaningful learning and productive struggle in ST Math, we recommend disabling Google Chrome’s AI Mode on any school-managed devices used to access ST Math.

AI Mode in Chrome may prompt students with AI-generated assistance directly in the browser. Because ST Math is designed to build deep conceptual understanding through exploration and problem solving, direct AI assistance can interfere with the intended learning experience.

This article outlines several ways system administrators can disable Google Chrome’s AI Mode on student devices.

Option 1: Disable on a Single Device (Quick Fix)

This method works directly in Chrome and is a good option for individual devices or quick testing — though note that Chrome flag settings may reset after browser updates, so the centralized options below are more reliable long-term.

  1. Open Google Chrome and type chrome://flags in the address bar, then press Enter.
  2. In the search box, type AI Mode.
  3. Find AI Mode Omnibox entrypoint and set the dropdown to Disabled.
  4. Click Relaunch to restart Chrome and apply the change.

Option 2: Centralized Management via Google Admin Console (Recommended for Chromebook Environments)

For schools managing Chromebooks or Chrome browsers via Google Workspace:

  1. Sign in to the Google Admin Console.
  2. Navigate to: Devices → Chrome → Settings → Users & Browsers
  3. Select the appropriate Organizational Unit (OU) containing student devices.
  4. Locate the setting related to AI features, AI Mode, or Omnibox AI entrypoint (naming may vary by Chrome version).
  5. Set the feature to Disabled.
  6. Save and apply changes.

Changes will propagate automatically to devices within the selected OU.

Option 3: Windows Devices Using Group Policy (GPO)

For Windows environments managing Chrome through Group Policy:

  1. Ensure you have installed the latest Google Chrome ADMX templates.
  2. Open Group Policy Management Editor.
  3. Navigate to: Computer Configuration → Administrative Templates → Google → Google Chrome
  4. Locate the policy related to AI features or Omnibox AI entry points (naming may vary depending on Chrome version and template updates).
  5. Set the policy to Disabled.
  6. Apply and update group policy across targeted devices.

After policy refresh, Chrome will disable the AI Mode feature on managed machines.

Deployment Recommendations

  • Apply the setting to all student-managed devices used to access ST Math.
  • Test the change on a small device group before district-wide deployment.
  • Keep Chrome updated to ensure policy controls remain available and enforceable.
  • Periodically verify that AI Mode remains disabled after major Chrome updates.

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