Google has unveiled a range of new capabilities for its Classroom software, including complimentary Gemini AI tools for teachers and the introduction of NotebookLM to users under 18 for the first time.
Educators using Google Workspace accounts will soon find a dedicated Gemini tab in Google Classroom, featuring tools designed for brainstorming lesson plans, creating math problems, and drafting emails. Users with Education Plus Edition accounts can access additional Gemini audio lessons as add-ons. A new Analytics tab will enable teachers to monitor student performance, especially tracking those who have shown improvement or are at risk of falling behind due to missing assignments.
In addition, Google is set to expand access to its NotebookLM research and note-taking platform for users younger than 18 in the upcoming months. Students will be able to utilize NotebookLM to explore interactive study guides and listen to podcast-style audio summaries of the source materials uploaded by their teachers. Furthermore, educators can create their own custom Gems, which are mini Google agents tailored to their curriculum that they can share with students. These Gems will enable students to seek additional assistance or deepen their understanding of specific subjects, with the capability for administrators to also share Gems with the teachers they supervise to aid in lesson planning.
Additional enhancements for educators include Google Vids for generative video creation and a new feature in Gemini aimed at simplifying form creation. Furthermore, the recently launched Google Class Tools will enable teachers to manage their students’ Chromebooks, making it easier to share content and reduce distractions during lessons. Teachers can now connect directly to students’ accounts to push resources like workbooks, videos, presentations, or quizzes straight to their devices.
In relation to Chromebooks, Google is showcasing more than 12 new Chromebook, Chromebook Plus, and Chromebook OPS devices designed for classroom use. Though specific rollout dates are yet to be announced, the lineup features the newly launched Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14, which is available today.
With the rollout of these new Gemini features, Google has indicated that Gemini Education will transition to the standard offering for its primary education accounts. This tier will provide users access to Gemini 2.5 Pro AI models with enhanced limits compared to basic consumer accounts. The existing Gemini Education and Gemini Education Premium packages will merge into what is being branded as Google AI Pro for Education.
