Google is reshaping access to its Gemini models across subscription plans, with major changes coming from October 9. Free users will be limited to Flash-Lite, while AI Plus subscribers will lose access to Pro. AI Pro and AI Ultra users will continue to get Flash-Lite, Flash and Pro models.
Gemini access changes from October 9
Under the updated limits, users without a Google AI subscription will only have access to Flash-Lite from October 9. Flash and Pro will be removed from the free tier.
AI Plus subscribers will continue to get Flash-Lite and Flash, but Pro will no longer be included in the $4.99 (roughly ₹500) monthly plan. Google said affected AI Plus users will receive emails explaining when the change will apply to their accounts.
The changes follow Google’s decision earlier this year to measure Gemini usage based on the processing required for each request. Complex questions, longer conversations and advanced models can consume more of a user’s allowance.
AI Pro gets Deep Think
AI Pro subscribers are also gaining access to Deep Think, a feature previously limited to AI Ultra. The feature will arrive on the $19.99 (roughly ₹1,900) monthly AI Pro plan. AI Ultra users continue to get Deep Think through its $99.99 (roughly ₹9,600) and $199.99 (roughly ₹19,300) monthly options.
Deep Think uses parallel reasoning to handle more complex requests and requires the Pro model.
Gemini may also receive 3 new thinking settings: Low, Medium and High. These options could allow users to control how much effort Gemini uses to answer a question. Higher settings could consume more of the usage allowance. Gemini currently offers Extended Thinking for complex problems, while Google AI Studio and Antigravity already have similar controls.
Gemini 4 Argon testing expands
Google is also testing Gemini 4 Argon with trusted cybersecurity professionals through its Fairwind programme. The model is expected to reach paid API customers and AI Ultra subscribers later.
Google has not yet confirmed whether Argon will be included in the Pro plan or introduced as a new tier above it.
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