Google Modifies Gemini 3 Pro Access for Free Users — New Limits Explained

Google has begun revising how much access free-tier users receive on Gemini 3 Pro and its enhanced Nano Banana Pro image generation model. The update comes shortly after a spike in user activity, prompting the tech giant to switch from fixed daily usage limits to a capacity-based dynamic system.

Google Alters Free Access Model for Gemini 3 Pro

From fixed limits to fluctuating usage

Free users who previously enjoyed predictable daily usage caps will now see flexible access that may increase or decrease depending on platform load. Google says access may “change frequently” with demand — signalling a shift towards resource-managed distribution as adoption rises.

Earlier limits vs Now

This change follows a surge in usage after Gemini 3’s release, when users experimented widely with AI-driven reasoning prompts and image generation.

Gemini 3 Pro Access: What’s Different Now?

Usage now classified as “Basic access”

According to Google, free users now receive “Basic access” on Gemini 3 Pro, replacing the earlier fixed 5 prompts/day standard. The new variable model means prompt capacity may adjust dynamically depending on AI server demand.

Nano Banana Pro Image Generation Reduced

The Nano Banana Pro image model — now widely adopted for its enhanced output quality — has been trimmed from three to two images per day, with Google noting the tool is currently “in high demand”. Daily limits may refresh, but could still fluctuate until traffic stabilises.

NotebookLM temporarily withdraws visual features

NotebookLM has also “temporarily rolled back access” to its Infographics and Slide Decks tools, both powered by Nano Banana Pro. Free users cannot currently access these features, and pro users are also seeing reductions as Google works to scale system capacity.

Google’s Response to Capacity Pressure

The company acknowledged the pressure caused by rapid adoption, stating:
“Due to overwhelming demand, we’re experiencing some capacity constraints… however we plan on bringing everything back to normal as soon as we can.”

This indicates that the restrictions are likely temporary, and expansion is already underway to restore full functionality.

Paid AI Subscribers Remain Unaffected

Users subscribed to Google AI Pro and Ultra plans continue to enjoy full unrestricted usage of Gemini 3 Pro. No changes have been applied to paid-tier entitlements, reinforcing the distinction between free access flexibility and premium stable capacity.