Google has recently implemented restrictions on free access to its AI tools, including the Gemini 3 Pro and the popular Nano Banana Pro image generator. This decision comes just one week after their launch, with the company citing “high demand” as the primary reason for the changes.
Access Changes for Free Users
Initially, free users of Gemini 3 Pro enjoyed the ability to submit up to 5 prompts per day, matching the previous limits set by its predecessor, Gemini 2.5 Pro. Additionally, these users could generate up to 3 images per day using the Nano Banana Pro model. However, Google has now altered these specific allowances. The updated support documentation indicates that free users will have “Basic access” to Gemini 3 Pro, meaning that “daily limits may change frequently” based on server load.
Furthermore, the limit for image generation with Nano Banana Pro has officially been reduced to 2 images per day, a decrease from the earlier allowance of 3 images. This adjustment reflects Google’s efforts to manage the overwhelming demand for these services.
Impact on Other Tools and Paid Subscribers
The capacity constraints have also affected other tools within Google’s suite. Earlier this week, the company announced a temporary rollback of the new Infographics and Slide Deck features in NotebookLM. Free users have lost access to these features entirely for the time being, while Pro users are facing “additional limits.” In an official statement, Google acknowledged the situation, saying, “Due to the overwhelming demand, we’re experiencing some capacity constraints… however we plan on bringing everything back to normal as soon as we can!”
For those who are paid subscribers, there is no cause for concern. The usage limits for Google AI Pro, which allows 100 prompts per day, and Google AI Ultra, which allows 500 prompts per day, remain unchanged. This move appears to prioritize paying customers as Google works to increase its computing capacity to accommodate the surge in users.
Overall, while the recent changes may be frustrating for free users eager to explore the capabilities of Gemini 3 Pro and Nano Banana Pro, the adjustments reflect a necessary response to the overwhelming interest in Google’s innovative AI offerings.
