News to Use: Google One subscription tiers and benefits explained

Google One has evolved from a simple cloud storage solution into a comprehensive subscription service that now incorporates Google’s latest AI capabilities through tiered plans. The service addresses the limitations of the standard 15GB free storage allocation by offering expanded capacity along with premium features that vary by subscription level. Understanding these tiers has become increasingly important as Google positions AI features as a central component of its subscription strategy, creating distinct value propositions for different user needs.

Google One Subscription Tiers and Benefits

The storage foundation: Every Google account includes 15GB of free cloud storage shared across Drive, Photos, and Gmail, but this allocation quickly becomes insufficient for users with videos, high-resolution photos, and work files.

1. Basic Plan (100GB)

• Priced at $2 monthly or $20 annually, this entry-level tier provides a modest storage upgrade.
• Includes family sharing capabilities, allowing up to five members to access the expanded storage.

2. Premium Plan (2TB)

• Available for $10 monthly or $100 annually, offering substantial storage for media-heavy users.
• Features unlimited Magic Editor saves in Google Photos, making it valuable for photography enthusiasts.
• Provides 10% back on Google Store purchases and access to Google Workspace premium features.

3. AI Pro Plan (2TB)

• Priced at $20 monthly, this tier marks Google’s entry into AI-focused subscriptions.
• Includes access to Gemini Pro, Flow Pro, and Whisk Pro AI tools.
• Comes with 1,000 AI Credits and integrates Gemini capabilities across Google services.

4. AI Ultra (30TB)

• The premium offering at $250 monthly targets power users and professionals.
• Includes top-tier Gemini AI capabilities and access to Veo 3.
• Bundles YouTube Premium as an additional benefit.

Key value propositions: Google One’s appeal extends beyond storage with family sharing options, AI-enhanced photo editing tools, Google Store rewards, and increasingly sophisticated AI tools integrated across Google’s ecosystem.

The AI integration strategy: With the newer AI-focused tiers, Google is clearly positioning its subscription service as the gateway to its advanced artificial intelligence capabilities, creating clear distinctions between casual storage users and those seeking cutting-edge AI tools.