Google Restricts Access to Some Gemini AI Models for Free Users
Google is introducing changes to the Gemini AI models available for free users in its app. Starting October 9, 2026, users without a paid plan will only have access to the Flash-Lite model. Those with an AI Plus subscription will lose access to the Pro model, while AI Pro and Ultra subscribers gain access to Deep Think, a reasoning option that was previously only available on the most expensive plans.
The changes are outlined in Google's help center page, which explains that model availability will change for users signed in with a personal account. The restriction begins on October 9 for free users, while AI Plus subscribers will receive an email when the restrictions reach them.
The prices of the paid plans remain unchanged: $4.99 for AI Plus and $19.99 for AI Pro. However, AI Ultra subscribers pay either $99.99 or $199.99 per month. The changes come as Google's Gemini app continues to grow in popularity, reaching 900 million monthly active users in May 2026.