Google is facing backlash after multiple reports emerged of users struggling to cancel their Gemini Advanced trials without impacting their Google One subscriptions. The controversy began when users signing up for the free Gemini Advanced trial discovered that canceling the trial also canceled their Google One subscription. This led some users to lose access to their original storage plans, forcing them to either subscribe to more expensive tiers or face storage limitations.

A thread on Google’s community forum highlighted the issue, with users sharing their frustrations. One user explained they wanted to cancel their Gemini trial but found no way to do so without canceling their Google One plan. Another user described losing their affordable 200GB plan after canceling Gemini, only to find that reinstating the plan wasn’t an option. Instead, they were left with more expensive subscription choices, prompting accusations of “bait-and-switch” tactics.

On Reddit, similar complaints have been raised. A user claimed that Google “bombarded” them with offers for the Gemini trial, only to “trap” them in pricier plans after the trial ended. Some described Google’s practices as unfair, while others called for clearer subscription management tools and policies.

Google’s Community Managers — Shriti Ghosh from the Google Drive team and Monika from the Google One team — posted similar responses aimed at addressing concerns. They assured users that their files and photos wouldn’t be deleted, even if their Google One plan was canceled. However, this has done little to soothe users who were left with limited storage options or forced to pay more to maintain their subscriptions.

In a follow-up, a product expert on the forum acknowledged the problem and confirmed that Google’s engineering team is investigating. However, their response was made four days ago. There still hasn’t been any further update regarding the situation.

Until a solution is implemented, users are advised to contact Google Support before canceling any Gemini trial to avoid unintended consequences. But with reports of mixed results from customer service, the lack of a clear, user-friendly process remains a sticking point.

For now, all eyes are on Google to deliver a fix—and soon. As one disgruntled customer put it, “After 20 years as a loyal Google user, this might be the last straw.”

Dwayne Cubbins
467 Posts

For nearly a decade, I've been deciphering the complexities of the tech world, with a particular passion for helping users navigate the ever-changing tech landscape. From crafting in-depth guides that unlock your phone's hidden potential to uncovering and explaining the latest bugs and glitches, I make sure you get the most out of your devices. And yes, you might occasionally find me ranting about some truly frustrating tech mishaps.

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