Google has changed access to its Gemini artificial intelligence models, so some users might need to upgrade their subscriptions to continue using advanced features. From October 9, 2026, users on the free tier and the entry-level Google AI Plus plan will experience limitations with some Gemini models.
The change affects users using Google's more capable AI models for research, writing, coding and other complex tasks. For the Pro model, for example, those who want access to the higher-tier Pro model will need to subscribe to Google AI Pro, which is more expensive than AI Plus in India.
What has changed for Google AI Plus users?
Under these changes, Google AI Plus subscribers will no longer have access to the Gemini 3.1 Pro model in the Gemini app. This means they can still use the standard Flash model but they will need a higher tier subscription for the more advanced Pro model.
Free users have even stricter limits. They are also limited to the Flash-Lite model and have to subscribe to a paid plan to access more capable models. Google’s new approach also makes model access more dependent on subscription tier rather than just having users choose between models under the same usage limits. The usage limits can also vary based on the model, feature and complexity of a request.
Google AI Plus vs Google AI Pro: Price in India.
Google offers multiple subscription plans in India, with different levels of access to its AI tools and cloud storage.
- Google AI Plus: ₹399 per month. This entry level paid plan offers more access to Gemini and other Google AI features.
- Google AI Pro: ₹1,950 per month. This plan offers higher usage limits and access to more advanced models and features.
- Google AI Ultra: starts at ₹6,500 per month. A product for users that need the best usage limits and extra premium features.
The price difference between AI Plus and AI Pro is significant. Before going on the buy, we would recommend considering how often the Pro model is used and if extra features are worth the monthly cost.
Why does Google restrict access to Gemini models?
The subscription changes are Google’s attempt to differentiate its AI plans by model access and usage limits. More advanced models demand a lot of computing resources, and tier-based access allows companies to manage demand for different subscription levels. But Google has not publicly indicated that this is the reason for these changes.
So we can interpret resource management as a potential reason instead of a fact. With the changes now in place, that difference in free, Plus and Pro subscription will be much more important. Users who previously relied on advanced models via low-cost access will now have to reconsider what plan is best suited for them.
What Can Users Do If They Need Gemini Pro?
Users who rely on Gemini Pro in complex research, coding, detailed analysis or other challenging tasks can switch to Google AI Pro. Users should check which models are currently available under their subscription before paying more.
- Review their usage limits for the features they are currently using.
- Compare the extra benefits of AI Pro with the monthly price difference.
- Consider whether the Flash model is sufficient for their everyday tasks.
Google's model availability and the subscription benefits may vary over time. We recommend the users to see the current Google AI plans page before upgrading.
Will Google AI Plus become more expensive?
The change is about access to Gemini models rather than a confirmed increase in the monthly price of Google AI Plus. The plan costs ₹399 per month in India, while Google AI Pro costs ₹1,950 per month.
Therefore, users who wish to continue using the Pro model will be at a higher effective subscription cost if they choose to upgrade. This is not the same as Google increasing the price of the AI Plus plan.
The key part for subscribers is whether these additional capabilities of Google AI Pro are worth the higher price for their own needs.
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