Theme
AI Access
Google AI Studio / Gemini API
Google's browser workspace and developer API for trying Gemini models, creating API keys, testing prompts, and moving selected experiments into code.
See how this access route works, what it asks you to set up, and which current terms to check before using it.
May fit if
You want to try Gemini before wiring an app
Trying Gemini in a browser, learning the Gemini API, prototyping prompts, and testing Google model features before deciding on a paid path.
Access observed
Model-dependent free tier
Checked 11 July 2026: Google said new accounts begin on a Free Tier with access to certain models in AI Studio and the Gemini API, subject to model and account limits. Paid projects have different billing and data-use terms.
What you will need
Google account, project, and API key for code
Sign in with a Google account, create or select a project, and create an API key when moving from the AI Studio playground into code.
How access works
The playground and API share a project boundary
AI Studio lets you test prompts and supported Gemini features in a browser, while the Gemini API carries those experiments into code. Model access and free-tier eligibility depend on the current project, region, and account state.
Limits and charges
Use the live project limits
Google says active rate limits depend on model, project, usage tier, and account status, can update over time, and are not guaranteed. Check the limits shown in AI Studio rather than relying on a saved number.
Your data and account
Free and paid projects have different data terms
Google's current terms distinguish unpaid and paid services and include a regional exception. Confirm whether the project is marked Free or Paid before deciding what information is appropriate to send.
Before relying on it
Check the project before the prompt
Free-tier access is for testing, not a promise of production capacity. Review supported regions, model status, billing setup, spend controls, rate limits, and the terms attached to your project before relying on it. Confirm model availability, region support, active limits, billing status, spend caps, data-use terms, and whether an experimental feature is suitable for the work you plan to keep.
Check current information
Google AI Studio and Gemini API source pages
Use these official pages for current setup, pricing, project limits, billing, and the free-versus-paid data boundary.
Continue exploring
Compare this route with the job you need to do.
See other limited or low-cost API paths, or return to the full Access guide for browser, app, API, and local choices.