Google is limiting Gemini models’ access for free and AI Plus users starting October 9: What is changing

Google is preparing to restrict which artificial intelligence (AI) models users can access across its consumer tiers, placing tighter model caps on both non-paying accounts and entry-level AI Plus subscribers. The adjustments have been detailed in an updated support document and builds on the company’s shift toward compute-based usage tracking introduced in May. Starting October 9, free users who access the Gemini web and mobile applications without an active Google AI subscription will be restricted exclusively to the (3.5) Flash-Lite model. These free users will no longer have access to the faster (3.6) Flash or the higher-capability (3.1) Pro models.

Subscription tier changes: What each plan receives