Google’s automatic model selection has begun appearing in free Gemini accounts. The picker now offers Auto, and most prompts go to Flash-Lite. Google says requests needing deeper reasoning may reach Flash or Pro. Turning off smart selection makes every response use Flash-Lite. The implemented routing therefore leaves some access to stronger models, despite the loss of manual choice.
Google has begun rolling out automatic model selection in the Gemini app for users without an AI plan. The change appeared on the vast majority of the free accounts checked by 9to5Google. Their model picker offers Auto with a Gemini 3 models description. Free users can no longer select the underlying model manually; the app routes each prompt instead.[1]
Most requests are assigned to Flash-Lite, which Google describes as its fastest model, while requests that call for more reasoning may be handled by Flash or Pro. The implemented routing therefore includes possible use of those stronger models in a free account. The earlier announced access change had described Flash-Lite as the remaining option. The new arrangement concerns prompt-by-prompt routing rather than a user choosing a stronger model from the menu.[1]
A free-account user who turns off smart model selection receives every response from Flash-Lite, according to Google’s explanation. Keeping the setting enabled lets the automatic routing consider other models for demanding requests. The distinction affects the model handling a conversation without restoring a manual Flash or Pro choice. The rollout is being observed in accounts as the previously announced app change takes effect.[1]
