Key Points
- Google adds Guided Learning mode to Gemini, enabling step‑by‑step problem solving and visual aids.
- Feature is powered by LearnLM, a model suite fine‑tuned for educational research.
- Students in the US, Japan, Indonesia, Korea, and Brazil receive a free year of AI Pro.
- AI Pro provides Gemini across Workspace, larger NotebookLM uploads, Gemini 2.5 Pro, and 2 TB storage.
- The AI Pro subscription normally costs $200 per year.
- Google pledges $1 billion over three years to support American education initiatives.
- The promotion and investment aim to deepen AI literacy and expand Google’s foothold in education.
A animation showing how Guided Learning responds to questions in Gemini.
Guided Learning Mode Expands Gemini’s Educational Capabilities
Google announced that its Gemini generative AI model now includes a Guided Learning mode. Designed to promote deeper understanding, the mode treats user queries as conversational learning sessions. When enabled via a toggle in the prompt box, Gemini breaks down problems into step‑by‑step instructions, poses follow‑up questions, and can generate visual aids to illustrate concepts. The feature draws on Google’s LearnLM, a collection of models fine‑tuned for learning and grounded in educational research.
Student Promotion Provides Free Access to AI Pro
In tandem with the feature rollout, Google is offering a free year of its AI Pro plan to college students in the United States, Japan, Indonesia, Korea, and Brazil. The promotion gives students access to Gemini across Google Workspace apps, increased file upload limits for NotebookLM, access to Gemini 2.5 Pro, and 2 TB of cloud storage. The AI Pro subscription normally costs $200 per year, making the free year a substantial benefit for eligible students.
Rebranding and Expanded Benefits
The AI Pro plan, previously announced as Google One AI Premium, has been renamed Google AI Pro. The subscription unlocks broader usage of Gemini within Google’s ecosystem, supporting a more integrated AI experience for education and productivity.
Significant Investment in American Education
Google also disclosed a $1 billion investment over three years aimed at supporting American education. The funding will be directed toward research, cloud computing resources, and AI literacy courses, helping non‑profit universities adapt to a student body increasingly engaged with AI tools.
Strategic Outlook
By enhancing Gemini with Guided Learning and providing free AI Pro access to students, Google leverages its strong presence in education through Chromebooks and Workspace. The combined strategy seeks to cultivate a new generation of AI‑savvy users while reinforcing Google’s role in the evolving educational technology landscape.
Source: engadget.com