Google limits free use of Gemini just days after unveiling Gemini 4 Argon
In 30 seconds
Google has published on its help page that, starting October 9, anyone using Gemini with a personal account and without a Google AI plan will only have Flash-Lite. AI Plus keeps Flash-Lite and Flash, and Pro is reserved for AI Pro and AI Ultra, which also have Deep Think. The page refers to personal accounts and says nothing about Workspace business accounts.
Google has published on its help page the changes to the models that can be used in the Gemini app with a personal account.
Starting October 9, anyone using Gemini without a Google AI plan will only have Flash-Lite, the only one of its three models left in the free version.
AI Plus keeps Flash-Lite and Flash. Google says these users will receive an email explaining when the change takes effect for them.
Pro is reserved for AI Pro and AI Ultra, which have all three models plus Deep Think, the option for maximum parallel reasoning.
For each model, users will be able to choose the effort level (low, medium or high): more effort gives more thorough answers, but uses more of the usage limit.
Google refers to personal accounts; the page says nothing about Workspace business accounts.
If someone on your team works with free Gemini from a personal account, we think it is worth reviewing before October 9.
Why it matters
If someone on your team uses free Gemini from a personal account, it is worth reviewing before October 9.
Official source: Google
