Google to restrict free Gemini AI model access starting October 9th

Google is set to limit free access to its Gemini AI models starting October 9th. Non-subscribers will only have access to the Flash-Lite model, a reduction from the three models previously available. This change affects users who do not have a Google AI subscription.

Google AI Plus subscribers will retain access to both Flash-Lite and Flash models but will lose access to the Pro model. The company has stated that AI Plus subscribers will receive an email notification when these changes take effect for their accounts.

Subscribers to Google AI Pro and Google AI Ultra will continue to enjoy full access to all three models, Flash-Lite, Flash, and Pro. Additionally, these subscribers will gain access to Deep Think, a feature designed to enhance parallel reasoning for complex tasks.

This announcement follows Google's earlier introduction of Argon, a new advanced AI model that will serve as the flagship of its upcoming Gemini 4 generation.