Starting in October 2026, Google will change the Gemini AI models that free personal accounts can use. Free users will only be able to run the smallest model, called Flash‑Lite. The larger Flash and Pro models will be removed from the free tier.
How the new subscription tiers work
Google’s AI Plus subscription, priced at $4.99 a month, will still give access to Flash‑Lite and Flash but will no longer include the Pro model. To use Flash or Pro, users must upgrade to AI Pro ($19.99/month) or the higher‑priced AI Ultra plans ($99.99 or $199.99 per month). The tier layout mirrors OpenAI’s freemium approach for ChatGPT.
Why it matters
Casual users will notice no change because they rarely know which Gemini model they are using. Power users who need the stronger models will have to pay at least $19.99 a month, which could push some to consider alternative AI services.
