Google narrows Gemini access: free users get Flash-Lite only, AI Plus loses Pro

Google's new Gemini tiers cut free users to its weakest model and lock $5/month subscribers out of Pro

Starting October 2026, Google will limit free Gemini access on personal accounts to Flash-Lite and drop Pro access from AI Plus. The current free tier offers 3.6 Flash and some level of 3.1 Pro access; after the change, AI Plus at $4.99/month gets only Flash-Lite and Flash.

Why it matters: Google is tightening Gemini access on free and low-cost plans, pushing Pro behind a pricier subscription.