EQUIPThe Verge · 1h ago
Google is about to remove free access to Gemini Flash and Pro
Executive Brief
The 30-second read
Google will restrict free Gemini users to the Flash Lite model starting October 9, 2026. Access to standard Flash and Pro models will subsequently require a paid Google AI Plus subscription.
- 01Free-tier access to Gemini Flash and Pro models ends on October 9
- 02Users must subscribe to Google AI Plus for four dollars ninety-nine cents monthly
- 03Unpaid accounts will be limited exclusively to the base Flash Lite model
- 04The transition marks a shift toward a tiered monetization strategy for Google AI services
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Business Travel Management 2026: Program Blueprint →AI-generated summary · Verify at source
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 […]