In a significant milestone for Google, the tech giant’s all-in-one subscription service, Google One, has surpassed 100 million subscribers. The achievement was announced by Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google and Alphabet, in a post on X (formerly known as Twitter). This achievement closely follows the introduction of Gemini Advanced, an artificial intelligence (AI) assistant powered by Google’s robust foundational model, Gemini Ultra. The subscription plan for Gemini Advanced is integrated with Google One, playing a pivotal role in the accelerated growth of Google One subscribers.
We just crossed 100M Google One subscribers! Looking forward to building on that momentum with our new AI Premium Plan (launched yesterday) offering AI features like Gemini Advanced, plus Gemini in Gmail, Docs + more coming soon. https://t.co/m7zAVop7P6 pic.twitter.com/sMdwJeq0iU
— Sundar Pichai (@sundarpichai) February 9, 2024
This milestone highlights Google’s commitment to transitioning its user base away from free plans. Google’s YouTube Premium service also reached this milestone in nine years, with the help of features like ad removal and additional perks such as music and high-quality streaming, coinciding with YouTube’s efforts to address ad blockers.
From Bard to Gemini
Google recently announced the rebranding of its well-known Bard AI chatbot to Gemini, aligning the chatbot with the capabilities of the Large Language Model at its core. Gemini Advanced, the upgraded version, offers a more robust and versatile AI experience. It is designed for advanced reasoning, following instructions, coding, creative collaboration, and serves as a personal tutor or creative partner. Google One AI Premium plan subscribers can soon leverage Gemini across various applications, including Gmail, Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Meet.
Gemini for Google Cloud is expected to enhance productivity, expedite coding for developers, and fortify cybersecurity measures, among other benefits.
With a dedicated app on Android and integration into the Google app on iOS, Gemini and Gemini Advanced are now at your fingertips. The new mobile experience allows users to interact with Gemini through typing, voice commands, or by adding images, facilitating on-the-go assistance.
Google One subscription plans in India
Google One subscription plans build on the 15 GB of free storage offered to all users for Gmail, Photos, and more. The “Basic” 100 GB plan is priced at ₹35/month for the first 3 months, and ₹130/month thereafter. This plan allows sharing with up to five users, and offers additional Google Photos editing features, VPN by Google One, and dark web monitoring.
The “Premium” tier, starting at 2 TB, is now available for ₹160/month for the first 3 months and ₹650/month thereafter. The new AI Premium tier offers a two-month free trial, followed by ₹1,950/month. This plan enables subscribers to gain access to Gemini Advanced and Gemini in Google Workspace, incorporating features like Help Me Write (Gmail), organize (Slides), and visualize (Sheets).
There is often a confusion between GSuite or Google Workspace and Google One. Both serve distinct purposes. GSuite encompasses Google’s collaborative and productivity tools, forming a suite of web applications and services, while Google One is the company’s subscription service designed to broaden online cloud storage choices.
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