October 6, 2026, 7:22 am | Read time: 2 minutes
Google is tightening the pricing on its AI platform Gemini. Starting October 9, users without a paid subscription will only have access to limited features. The previously free models Gemini Flash and Gemini Pro will be completely removed from the free offering. Instead, only Gemini Flash-Lite will remain available for free.
The Last Free Gemini Model
Gemini Flash-Lite is the smallest model in the Gemini family. Flash-Lite can still create texts, analyze images, and process documents. This should suffice for simple tasks such as translations or short summaries. However, those who wish to evaluate extensive documents, analyze complex data, or solve demanding programming tasks will need a paid subscription in the future.
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Even Paid Versions Lose Features
The tightening does not come as a surprise. In recent months, Google has repeatedly reduced the limits for free users. After initially limiting usage, access to the more powerful models is now completely eliminated.
Some paying customers are also affected by the changes. Users of the “AI Plus” plan for 5 euros per month will also lose access to the Pro model. The package will now only offer Flash-Lite and Flash, along with higher computing capacity compared to the free version. Those who want to continue accessing all three models will need to subscribe to the “AI Pro” plan for 21.99 euros per month.
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New Features for All Gemini Models
Regardless of the chosen package, Google is also introducing a new control for the AI in October. Users will be able to choose between the intensity levels “Low,” “Medium,” and “High.” Higher settings are intended to provide more thorough responses but will consume more of the available computing capacity.
Observers see the changes as preparation for the launch of Gemini 4 “Argon.” The new AI model is initially expected to be available exclusively to subscribers of the premium “AI Ultra” plan for a hefty 99.99 euros per month. However, Google has not yet announced the exact launch date.