Google Introduces Free AI Features in Workspace, Raises Subscription Prices
Previously, to access all of Google’s AI features in Gmail, Docs, Sheets, Meet, and other Workspace tools, users had to pay an additional $20 per user per month for the Gemini Business plan. However, as of this Tuesday, Google is making these AI features available at no extra cost, aiming to compete with Microsoft, OpenAI, and other players in the race to develop the next-generation AI-powered office suite.
There is, however, a price adjustment: Google is raising the cost of all Workspace plans by approximately $2 per user per month. This change brings the base subscription price from $12 to $14 per user per month, although the exact increase may vary due to complex contracts with businesses.
The AI enhancements in Workspace include useful tools like email summaries in Gmail, design assistance for spreadsheets and videos, automated meeting note-taking, the NotebookLM research assistant, and writing tools across apps. Users will also have access to the Gemini bot, one of Google’s most advanced AI offerings, capable of handling standard chatbot tasks, assisting with searches, and much more.
Jerry Dischler, Google’s president of cloud applications, emphasized that the company’s AI product is highly integrated but that the key to its success is ensuring broad adoption. He also pointed out that companies often hesitate to embrace AI due to cost concerns, but with AI now included in the Workspace plans, the value is immediate.
Google’s move follows Microsoft’s November announcement to include its Copilot Pro AI features in the standard Microsoft 365 subscription, also eliminating the previous $20 monthly charge. Both companies are betting that providing AI tools to all users will help them reach new customers and foster deeper engagement with their products in the long term.
