Google has announced that Gemini integration in BigQuery will transition from free to paid access, with the free period ending on January 27, 2025. This change marks a significant shift in the platform's pricing structure for AI capabilities.
New Paid Structure
After the free period ends, users must choose one of two options to maintain access:
- BigQuery Enterprise Plus edition reservations
- Gemini Code Assist Enterprise license
Important Compliance Considerations
The integration comes with notable compliance distinctions:
- Gemini in BigQuery operates as part of Gemini for Google Cloud
- Security and compliance offerings differ from standard BigQuery features
- Implementation is recommended only for projects without specific compliance requirements
Enterprise Plus Edition Implementation
To enable Gemini access through Enterprise Plus:
- Create a BigQuery Enterprise Plus edition reservation
- Set up an assignment with
job_typeofQUERY - Apply at organization or project level
- Query jobs within assigned projects gain Gemini capabilities
Access Management
For organizations needing to restrict Gemini access:
- Options available to turn off Gemini features
- Controls can be implemented at various administrative levels
- Detailed guidance available in Google Cloud documentation
The transition to paid plans indicates Google's move to monetize AI integration within its enterprise data analytics platform.
