Google to limit free access to Gemini AI models from October 9

Yesterday 09:32

By: Azzat Manal

Google to limit free access to Gemini AI models from October 9

Google is set to tighten access to its Gemini artificial intelligence models for users on free accounts, with new restrictions scheduled to take effect on October 9.

Under the new system, users with personal Google accounts who are not subscribed to a Google AI plan will lose access to the Gemini Flash and Gemini Pro models. Their free access will be limited to the Flash-Lite model, representing a significant reduction in the range of models available without a paid subscription.

The changes will also affect Google AI Plus subscribers. These users will retain access to Flash-Lite and Flash but will no longer be able to use the Pro model under their existing plan. Subscribers to Google AI Pro and Google AI Ultra will continue to have access to all three models.

Google is expected to notify AI Plus customers by email about when the new restrictions will be applied to their individual accounts. The company is therefore moving toward a more clearly differentiated model in which access to its most capable AI systems depends increasingly on the user's subscription tier.

At the same time, Google is expanding access to its Deep Think feature. Previously reserved for Ultra subscribers, the advanced reasoning capability will also become available to Google AI Pro customers. The company describes Deep Think as a system designed to perform complex tasks through parallel reasoning.

Under the updated subscription structure, Pro subscribers will have access to Flash-Lite, Flash and Pro models, as well as Deep Think. Ultra customers will retain the same range of models and features.

The changes come as Google continues to expand Gemini across its products and services and competes with other major developers of generative AI systems. The company has increasingly integrated Gemini into applications ranging from search and productivity tools to mobile services and developer platforms.

The new access rules are scheduled to begin on October 9, with the models and features available to each user determined by their Google AI subscription level.