Google has updated the access rules for its newly launched Gemini 3 Pro AI model and the accompanying Nano Banana Pro, creating uncertainty for users who rely on the free tier.
When Gemini 3 Pro debuted, free users were offered five prompts per day, matching the previous limit set for Gemini 2.5 Pro. In addition, users could also interact with Nano Banana Pro using up to three images per day, giving non-paying users a fair amount of hands-on experience with Google’s latest AI tools.
However, over the past few days, Google quietly changed these limitations, leaving users confused about what exactly they can still access without a subscription. The company’s official website now simply states that free users receive “Basic access” to Gemini 3 Pro unless they subscribe to the Google AI Pro or AI Ultra plans. The same vague terminology now applies to Nano Banana Pro as well.
This shift has made the actual usage limits unclear. Google appears to be moving away from specifying daily prompt or image allowances for free users, instead offering general access without clearly defined boundaries. The changes suggest the company is adjusting to rapidly increasing usage while also nudging users toward its paid AI tiers.
While it is evident that Google would prefer customers to subscribe to its AI Pro or AI Ultra plans for full functionality, it is noteworthy that the tech giant has not completely locked the latest models behind a paywall. Free users still receive some level of access to Gemini 3 Pro, though the lack of clarity may cause frustration among those who enjoyed the previously defined limits.
Google’s ongoing adjustments reflect both the growing demand for advanced AI tools and the company’s need to balance server load, monetization strategies, and user experience. As AI adoption continues to rise, users may see more changes ahead as Google fine-tunes its approach to offering free and paid access.