Industry & Policy

Google limits free Gemini access starting October 9th

Original titleGoogle is about to remove free access to Gemini Flash and Pro

Outlet: The Verge AI
Published: Oct 6, 2026
Importance: 5/5

Summary

Starting October 9th, free Google Gemini users will be limited to the Flash Lite model. Access to the standard Flash model requires a $4.99 monthly Google AI Plus subscription, which will also stop including Gemini Pro. Top-tier Gemini Pro and Deep Think reasoning will be restricted to Google AI Pro or Ultra subscribers.

Also reported by 1 outlet

AI TimesKorean-language reportaitimes.com · in Korean

Original excerpt

Starting on October 9th, anyone using Google Gemini on a free plan will be limited to the Flash Lite model. Free users can currently choose from Gemini Flash Lite, Flash, and Pro, but now you'll need a $4.99/month Google AI Plus subscription to access the standard Flash model. However, that subscription is also getting a downgrade - it will soon no longer include Gemini Pro. Google says AI Plus subscribers will receive an email letting them know when they'll lose access to it. After these changes, access to the top-tier Gemini Pro model and a "Deep Think" advanced reasoning option will be restricted to users with a Google AI Pro or Ultra s … Read the full story at The Verge.

#google#gemini#pricing

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