Google Offers Free AI Features to Pixel 9 Users, Excludes Older Models
- tech360.tv
- Apr 9
- 2 min read
Google has rolled out a surprise April 2025 Pixel Drop, offering free access to premium AI features for all Pixel 9-series users, but the move has left some Pixel owners disappointed.
Announced on April 8, the update gives Pixel 9-series smartphones free access to Gemini Live’s voice and screen sharing capabilities. These features allow users to interact with the Gemini app in real time by sharing their screen or camera view.
Previously, these functions were only available through a paid Gemini Advanced subscription.
Pixel 9 Pro-series users already had access to these features via a bundled two-month Gemini Advanced subscription. The update now brings the same capabilities to standard Pixel 9 users at no extra cost.
The timing of the update appears to coincide with the upcoming launch of the Pixel 9a, scheduled for April 10. By including these AI tools in the budget-friendly model, Google can promote its top-tier features without requiring users to purchase the Google One AI Premium subscription.
A year-long subscription to Google One AI Premium costs nearly half the price of the USD 499 Pixel 9a. Since the base Pixel 9 is already sold without the subscription, extending the features to both models ensures consistency across the series.
However, the update does not include Pixel 8-series or older devices. Some users have expressed frustration over the exclusion, especially given the relatively recent release of those models.
This Pixel Drop is unusual in that it focuses on a single major feature and limits availability to the newest Pixel series. The strategy may be aimed at boosting interest in the Pixel 9a and encouraging upgrades.
Pixel 9 Pro users may also reconsider renewing their Gemini Advanced subscriptions once their complimentary 12-month access ends, now that some features are available for free.
Google released free Gemini Live AI features for all Pixel 9-series users
Pixel 9 Pro users already had access via Gemini Advanced
Pixel 8 and older models are excluded from the update
Source: FORBES