From 13 November 2026, my Gemini AI Plus plan will no longer include the Pro model. Google told me by email today. My first reaction was to walk away from Gemini altogether.
My son Jesse saw this coming. He and his wife live in Adelaide, Australia. We often talk across time zones. AI came up a few times. He once told me that most AI tools start free, but big tech eventually moves the best models behind a paywall.
Gemini AI Plus Is Not the Only Plan Shrinking
Jesse was right. ChatGPT’s free and Go plans now get only its lowest model. Gemini’s free plan is down to Flash-Lite, and Gemini AI Plus keeps Flash-Lite and Flash.
Still, quitting Gemini would not fix anything. It would be like emptying my Tupperware of fresh water into the sea to make it less salty. One small subscriber leaving makes no difference to Google.
Gemini AI Pro vs Claude Pro: What I Decided
At the time of writing, Gemini AI Pro costs RM979.90 a year, about the same as Claude Pro at USD200 a year. Gemini AI Pro also brings 5TB of storage, image and video generation, Google Health Premium, YouTube Premium Lite, and more. Prices and features may change, so check the latest details before you decide.
However, for brainstorming and polishing my writing, I prefer Claude. So, I will stay on Gemini AI Plus, keep using Claude’s free version, and consider paying when I hit its limit. So far, I haven’t.
Drawing My Own Blog Images
Jesse gave me another challenge. Depending on AI for blog images is not a long-term solution, he said. Why not draw them myself?
I had never thought of that. I used to search for free stock images, then switched to AI image generation. I’m no Picasso. Still, my own drawings might give you a laugh, and that might brighten your day.
Who I Asked for Advice
So, as I often do, I sought counsel. First, I talked to Jesse, who is far wiser than I am. Then I asked three more advisers: Claude, ChatGPT, and Perplexity.
Yes, I asked AI to help me decide how much I should depend on AI.
Scripture reminds me that “victory is won through many advisers” (Proverbs 11:14, NIV). I’m grateful for counsel, whether it comes from a son across the sea, a friend, or a tool. But the same book tells us to trust in the Lord with all our heart and not lean on our own understanding (Proverbs 3:5).
Tools can sharpen my thinking, but they can’t replace the One who gives me wisdom. I’m happy to pay for good tools and learn from good advisers, as long as I remember where my real dependence lies.
What do you lean on when you decide something?
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