Overview
- Google emailed AI Plus subscribers that starting November 13, 2026 they will lose manual access to Gemini Pro models in the Gemini app and AI Mode in Search.
- After that date the $4.99 monthly AI Plus plan will be limited to Flash and Flash‑Lite models while Gemini 4 Argon and other Pro models will be available only to AI Pro ($19.99/mo) and AI Ultra subscribers.
- Google warns that existing chats built with Pro models will remain viewable but new replies will use a non‑Pro model unless the user upgrades to a higher tier.
- The change follows an October 9 adjustment that defaulted free accounts to an automated Gemini Auto routing that favors Flash‑Lite, and it pairs model gating with compute‑based usage controls that increase higher‑quality responses’ impact on allowances.
- The move could push budget users to pay roughly four times more to keep Pro selection, and observers say the company should be watched for subscriber churn, changes in usage patterns, and whether Google adjusts allowances or pricing in response to pushback.