Google removes model switching for free Gemini users
Free Gemini users now see only 'Auto' in the model picker, Google is rolling out new Low, Medium and High thinking levels for all subscribers.
Google has begun rolling out a change to the Gemini app that removes model switching for users without a paid plan, according to 9to5google.com. The only option now available in the model picker for free users is "Auto" with "Gemini 3 models".
According to Google, auto model selection sends each prompt to the most suitable Gemini model. Most prompts will go to Flash-Lite, while prompts that need deeper reasoning may be routed to Flash or Pro. If smart model selection is turned off, chats for users without an AI plan will use Flash-Lite for all responses.
New thinking levels for subscribers
Google is also rolling out new thinking levels — Low, Medium and High — that replace the previous "Extended" option. The new levels are available to all subscribers and are in the process of rolling out.
Google AI Plus users will soon be limited to Flash-Lite and Flash.
Last week, Google's support documentation referred to the free-tier model as Gemini 3.5 Flash-Lite, and Google announced the change to the Gemini app experience for free-plan users.
Quick answers
Can free Gemini users still choose a model?
No. The only option in the model picker for free users is now "Auto" with "Gemini 3 models".
What are the new Gemini thinking levels?
Google is rolling out Low, Medium and High thinking levels, which replace the previous "Extended" option. They are available to all subscribers and are in the process of rolling out.
Which model do free Gemini users get?
Auto selection sends most prompts to Flash-Lite, with deeper reasoning prompts possibly routed to Flash or Pro. If smart model selection is off, chats use Flash-Lite.