Google is introducing new AI-based pricing options for its Google One cloud storage subscription service, potentially shaking up how users access Gemini Advanced features. The tech giant is working on alternative ways to purchase access to Gemini Advanced, which enables its most capable AI models and premium features.
New Subscription Plans Uncovered
Recent code discoveries in the Google Photos app have revealed two potential new subscription tiers: ‘AI Premium Plus’ and ‘AI Premium Pro.’ These additions could offer more flexible pricing and feature options for users currently limited to the $19.99/month Google One AI Premium plan, which includes 2TB of cloud storage and various AI-powered features across Google services.
What Could These New Tiers Offer?
While specific details remain under wraps, speculation suggests that ‘Premium Plus AI’ and ‘Premium AI Pro’ might include:
- Improved quality for AI-generated images and videos, such as higher resolution or longer durations for Veo 2 creations
- Reduced usage limits on AI features, allowing more extensive interaction with Gemini Advanced
- Larger context windows for processing bigger files and longer videos
- New features or more powerful AI models for premium subscribers
Strategic Implications for Google
These new tiers could create significant opportunities for Google, particularly with premium smartphones like the Pixel 9 Pro or Samsung Galaxy S25 Series often coming bundled with free Google One AI Premium subscriptions. By offering higher-tier plans, Google can potentially upsell to these users when their free subscriptions expire.
Considerations for Consumers
With rapid advancements in AI technology across multiple platforms, including competitors like ChatGPT and Claude, it’s wise for consumers to consider the evolving landscape before committing to annual subscriptions. Google has a history of eventually making premium AI features available to free users, albeit with usage limits.
Looking Ahead
More information about these potential new subscription tiers is expected to surface at Google I/O next month. Until then, consumers may want to stick with monthly subscriptions to maintain flexibility in a rapidly changing AI market.
