Google has expanded its artificial intelligence lineup with the launch of Gemini 3 Flash, a new AI model designed for speed and efficiency. The announcement follows the release of Gemini 3 Pro last month and signals Google’s push to make faster AI responses the default experience across its platforms.
Unlike Gemini 3 Pro, which is built for complex and computation-heavy tasks, Gemini 3 Flash is optimized for quick, general-purpose use, making it suitable for everyday questions and interactions.
Built for Speed, Designed Like Search
Google said Gemini 3 Flash was developed from the ground up to deliver rapid responses and is intended to feel as fast as a standard Google search for most prompts. The company described it as a speed-first model, prioritizing low latency without compromising accuracy for common use cases.
Gemini 3 Flash Is Now the Default Model
Gemini 3 Flash has replaced previous models as the default AI in the Gemini app. Users selecting the “Fast” or “Thinking” modes are automatically using Gemini 3 Flash, while Gemini 3 Pro is only activated when the “Pro” option is selected.
This change reflects Google’s focus on efficiency, as Flash requires fewer computing resources while still delivering strong performance.
Gemini 3 Flash vs Gemini 3 Pro
According to Google, Gemini 3 Pro remains the best choice for advanced tasks such as complex mathematics, coding, and deep reasoning. However, Gemini 3 Flash is expected to handle most everyday AI needs with significantly faster response times.
In internal benchmark testing, Google said Gemini 3 Flash:
-
Performs far better than Gemini 2.5 Flash
-
Matches OpenAI’s GPT-5.2 in some tests
-
Outperforms Gemini 2.5 Pro in certain benchmarks
— all while responding much faster.
Gemini 3 Flash Powers Google Search AI Mode
Google confirmed that Gemini 3 Flash is now the default model behind Google Search’s AI Mode worldwide. The upgrade improves AI Mode’s ability to:
-
Understand nuanced questions
-
Handle multiple constraints
-
Generate more structured and accurate responses
Gemini 3 Pro and Image Tools Remain Limited
Gemini 3 Pro is also available inside Search’s AI Mode, but only for US users. Users must manually select “Thinking with 3 Pro” to access it.
Google has also enabled Nano Banana 3 Pro for image generation in Search for US users. To use it, users must select:
AI Mode → Thinking with 3 Pro → Create Images Pro
So far, Google has not announced any plans to simplify its growing list of AI model options.
