Introduction to Gemini
Google CEO Sundar Pichai has reportedly set a goal for the company to reach 500 million Gemini users before the end of 2025. Rolling out new models may help the company get there, but you know what else helps? Giving away premium features for free. Google has announced today that it’s giving all US college students free access to Gemini Advanced, and not just for a month or two—the offer is good for a full year of service.
What is Gemini Advanced?
With Gemini Advanced, you get access to the more capable Pro models, as well as unlimited use of the Deep Research tool based on it. Subscribers also get a smattering of other AI tools, like the Veo 2 video generator, NotebookLM, and Gemini Live. The offer is for the Google One AI Premium plan, so it includes more than premium AI models, like Gemini features in Google Drive and 2TB of Drive storage.
How to Sign Up for the Offer
Google has a new landing page for the deal, allowing eligible students to sign up for their free Google One AI Premium plan. The offer is valid from now until June 30. Anyone who takes Google up on it will enjoy the free plan through spring 2026. The company hasn’t specified an end date, but we would wager it will be June of next year. Google’s intention is to give students an entire school year of Gemini Advanced from now through finals next year. At the end of the term, you can bet Google will try to convert students to paying subscribers.
Who Qualifies for the Offer?
As for who qualifies as a "student" in this promotion, Google isn’t bothering with a particularly narrow definition. As long as you have a valid .edu email address, you can sign up for the offer. That’s something that plenty of people who are not actively taking classes still have. You probably won’t even be taking undue advantage of Google if you pretend to be a student—the company really, really wants people to use Gemini, and it’s willing to lose money in the short term to make that happen.
Conclusion
Google’s offer of free Gemini Advanced to US college students is a great opportunity for students to experience the power of AI tools. With access to premium features like Deep Research and Veo 2 video generator, students can take their studies to the next level. The offer is a strategic move by Google to increase the adoption of Gemini and reach its goal of 500 million users by the end of 2025.
FAQs
- Q: What is Gemini Advanced?
A: Gemini Advanced is a premium AI service that includes access to Pro models, unlimited use of Deep Research, and other AI tools like Veo 2 video generator and NotebookLM. - Q: Who is eligible for the free Google One AI Premium plan?
A: US college students with a valid .edu email address are eligible for the free plan. - Q: How long is the free plan valid?
A: The free plan is valid for a full year, from now until spring 2026. - Q: What happens after the free plan ends?
A: Google will likely try to convert students to paying subscribers after the free plan ends.
