Google Limits Gemini Model Access for Free and AI Plus Users
Starting October 9, free users lose access to Gemini 3.6 Flash and newer models, while AI Plus subscribers lose Gemini 3.1 Pro.
Google announced it will restrict access to newer Gemini models for free users and Google AI Plus subscribers, with the changes taking effect on October 9, according to Android Authority.
Free users will be limited to Gemini 3.5-Flash-Lite only, losing access to Gemini 3.6 Flash and newer model variations. Google AI Plus subscribers, who pay $4.99 a month, will be confined to Flash and Flash-Lite models, losing access to Gemini 3.1 Pro and newer reasoning models.
Google AI Pro and Ultra subscribers will keep their existing perks, including access to a Deep Thinking option.
Google also said users will be able to select low, medium, or high effort levels for models, with usage limits expiring faster depending on the effort chosen.
Background
Google has been releasing iterative updates to its lightweight Gemini models almost every month, including Gemini 3.8 Flash in September. The company has also started testing Gemini 4 'Argon' in closed quarters before a wider release.
Quick answers
When do the new Gemini access limits take effect?
The changes go into effect on October 9.
Which Gemini models will free users still have access to?
Free users will be restricted to Gemini 3.5-Flash-Lite only.
Will Google AI Pro and Ultra subscribers be affected?
No, they keep the same perks as before, including access to a Deep Thinking option.