Google restricts free access to advanced Gemini models

Google has announced that it will end free access to its Gemini Flash and Gemini Pro models starting October 9. Free users of the chatbot will only be able to use the more limited Gemini Flash-Lite model. This change will remove the option to choose between models in the app or browser, streamlining the experience for free users but reducing their capabilities.

The shift affects both free users and subscribers to the Google AI Plus plan. The AI Plus plan, which costs $5 per month in the U.S., will lose access to Gemini 3.1 Pro. This model is designed for complex tasks like math, programming, and working with multimedia. Google suggests that users needing these features may upgrade to the Google AI Pro plan, priced at $20 per month, or the AI Ultra plan for advanced capabilities.

Additionally, Google is introducing effort-level settings for each model, allowing users to adjust the detail of responses. Higher effort levels will use up usage limits faster. AI Ultra subscribers will also gain access to the Deep Think option and, eventually, Gemini 4 Argon, currently available only to select partners.