Introduction
This blog explains why and how to block AI Mode in Google Search. Google has been rolling out AI-generated search summaries and results, known as AI Mode, to provide quick answers directly within the search page. While this can be helpful for general use, in educational and professional environments it can lead to reduced critical thinking, over-reliance on AI-generated information and exposure to potentially inaccurate or inappropriate content. Teachers and administrators in K-12 schools may find it difficult to ensure students are conducting proper research and evaluating credible sources when AI Mode provides instant summaries that can bypass the learning process. To maintain academic integrity and promote independent thinking, it’s important to block AI Mode, ensuring students engage with reliable sources and learn essential research skills.
What is AI Mode?
AI Mode in Google Search is a feature where Google uses generative AI to create instant, summarized answers directly at the top of search results. Instead of showing only the usual list of links, AI Mode analyzes the query, gathers information from multiple sources and produces a conversational summary.
Why to Disable AI Mode in Google Search?
Disabling AI Mode in Google Search is important in environments where accuracy, research skills and critical thinking are priorities. AI-generated summaries may contain outdated, incomplete or inaccurate information because they rely on machine learning models rather than verified sources. In K-12 classrooms, this can lead to students bypassing essential research steps, copying AI-generated content without understanding it or being exposed to inappropriate or biased information.
For teachers, this makes it harder to assess genuine learning and evaluate students' efforts. In professional settings, over-reliance on AI Mode can also result in poor decision-making and reduced productivity. By disabling AI Mode, administrators can ensure users engage with trustworthy sources, develop independent thinking skills and maintain higher standards of information literacy.
How to Block AI Mode on Google Search Using Google Admin Console
Google’s AI Mode in Search can be triggered when users access search results with the ?udm=50 parameter in the URL. This parameter is used by Google to enable the AI-generated overview mode. By blocking URLs that contain this parameter, you can prevent students from loading AI Mode while still allowing them to use standard Google Search.
Steps to Block AI Mode in Google Search via URL Blocking in Google Admin Console
- Sign into Google Admin Console with your admin credentials.
- Go to Google Admin > Devices > Chrome > Settings > Users & browsers > URL blocking.
- On the left pane Organizational units, select the student OU.
- In Configuration > Blocked URLs, enter https://www.google.com/search?udm=50.
- Click Save.
- Wait a few minutes for the changes to appear within the students’ devices.
Understanding UDM and the Significance of 50 in Chrome Policy Management
When managing ChromeOS devices and browsers in an educational or enterprise environment, IT administrators often come across terms like UDM and 39, especially when working with policies and extensions in the Google Admin Console.
UDM in Google Search refers to Unified Delivery Mode, a parameter that controls how search results are displayed. The number 50 specifically triggers AI Mode, showing AI-generated summaries at the top of search results.
Conclusion
In conclusion, blocking AI Mode in Google Search helps maintain focus, promote critical thinking. It ensures information accuracy in educational and professional environments. By restricting access to AI-generated summaries administrators can guide users toward credible sources and preserve research integrity. This blocking approach allows students and staff to benefit from standard Google Search without the distractions or potential inaccuracies of AI-generated content.
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