Google curbs free access to powerful Gemini models

Google will restrict users without a paid subscription from accessing more powerful AI models in the Gemini app. Starting October 9, free personal accounts will only be able to use the Flash-Lite model.

Thus, users without a Google AI plan will lose the ability to choose Flash and Pro. Flash-Lite is positioned by the company as the fastest and most economical model for everyday tasks, including text summarization and brainstorming. Flash is intended for a broader range of tasks with more complex reasoning, while Pro is the most powerful model in the lineup for complex queries, programming, and mathematics.

The changes will also affect the cheapest paid subscription, Google AI Plus. Its users will keep Flash-Lite and Flash but will lose access to Pro. However, there is no single transition date for them: Google is expected to notify subscribers separately by email when the new restrictions take effect for their account.

For Google AI Pro and AI Ultra owners, the set of core models will not be reduced: Flash-Lite, Flash, and Pro will remain available. In addition, more expensive plans will have a Deep Think mode designed for tasks requiring deeper processing.

Previously, the difference between free and paid accounts largely consisted in the number of available requests and other limits. After this change, Google will begin to differentiate plans also by the models themselves to which a user has access.

The restriction applies to the Gemini apps for personal Google accounts. Rules for work and school accounts are not described in the announcement of these changes.

Based on: Google, 9to5Google, Android Authority