Changes in Free Gemini Subscriptions

Google has recently implemented changes to access the Gemini AI applications for users with a free subscription. From today, free users can only use the Flash-Lite model. The other models, Flash and Pro, will be available exclusively through paid subscriptions starting October 9, 2026. This is a significant change, as until now all three models were available under certain usage restrictions.

Flash-Lite (version 3.5) is the smallest and fastest model designed for providing short answers. The middle model, Flash (3.6), and the strongest model, Pro (3.1), are no longer available to free users. However, there is uncertainty regarding the impact of this change on work and school accounts, as Google has not yet commented on this.

For paying subscribers, there are also changes to the models. The Google AI Plus subscription, which costs €4.99 per month, will only retain Flash-Lite and Flash; the Pro model will be removed. Interested subscribers will receive an email from Google with details about the effective date of these changes. The more expensive AI Pro subscription (€21.99 per month) retains all models and also introduces a new feature called Deep Think, which allows Gemini to think more deeply and efficiently about complex questions.

With these adjustments, Google makes it clear that they assign the most advanced AI functionalities to paying users. This policy also appears to be in line with the launch of Gemini 4 Argon, an advanced model that will initially be available only to a select group of testers and paying Ultra subscribers. The shift towards paid subscriptions indicates that Google is focusing on a revenue model around its AI technologies, which will particularly impact students and young people with limited resources.

Read the full article from AI Insider.