Google Workspace: Gemini AI Features and Pricing Changes
On January 15, 2025, Google announced a major shift for Google Workspace. Going forward, all Google Workspace licenses will include Gemini AI features and functions. Specific capabilities will vary by license type. While customers will no longer need to pay as much as $30 per user per month for these capabilities, the cost for most Google Workspace subscriptions will increase by about 17%. This increase affects all subscriptions, even those opting not to use the newly embedded Gemini AI features.
For new customers purchasing directly from Google, the price increase took effect immediately. For existing customers, Cumulus Global customers, and those working with other Google partners, the price increase takes effect on March 17, 2025.
Google Workspace Pricing Changes
The following table summarizes the price increases and Gemini AI features for both the Google Workspace Business and Enterprise tiers with Annual Plan Pricing. Flexible Plan prices increase similarly, reflecting a 20% upcharge.
| Starter | Standard | Enterprise | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price Increase (/user/month) Business Tier | $6 to $7 | $18 to $22 | Now $11 |
| Price Increase (/user/month) Enterprise Tier * | $30 to $35 |
* Pricing for Frontline and Enterprise Essentials subscriptions are available for organizations meeting specific eligibility requirements. Contact us for details.
Features include Gemini App, Gemini Advanced, Gemini in Gmail, Notebook LM, Gemini in Docs, Sheets, Slides, Chat, Drive, Google Vids, and AI Security. Note that pricing for Archived Users, Vault, Pooled Storage, Voice, and other products will not change at this time.
Google has indicated that it will cease billing for Gemini for Google Workspace licenses as of the end of January 2025. As these services are billed in arrears, we are working to determine if they will be included on February 2025 invoices.
Managing Gemini AI Features
Admins with appropriate permissions can manage Gemini AI features. Users have limited ability to control AI options.
Admins have the following options to control AI settings:
- Users can control the following AI options:
Cumulus Global clients should contact our Service Team for assistance. If you are self-service with Google direct, or have licensing through another Google partner, schedule a call with one of our Cloud Advisors. If you have considered upgrading your Google Workspace subscription to a higher tier, we recommend doing so before March 15, 2025. If you are on a Flexible Plan, consider moving to an Annual Plan.
Allen Falcon is the co-founder and CEO of Cumulus Global. Allen co-founded Cumulus Global in 2006 to offer small businesses enterprise-grade email security and compliance using emerging cloud solutions. He has led the company’s growth into a managed cloud service provider with over 1,000 customers throughout North America. Starting his first business at age 12, Allen is a serial entrepreneur. He has launched strategic IT consulting, software, and service companies. An advocate for small and midsize businesses, Allen served on the board of the former Smaller Business Association of New England, local economic development committees, and industry advisory boards.
