Google releases Gemini 3.1 Flash Lite at 1/8th the cost of Pro

Google has launched Gemini 3.1 Flash-Lite, a cost-effective and fast AI model, targeting enterprises needing scalable intelligence. This model complements the more powerful Gemini 3.1 Pro, offering a tiered approach to AI implementation. Flash-Lite excels in speed, significantly improving the "time to first token" compared to its predecessor. It allows developers to adjust reasoning intensity for optimal speed and cost. Benchmarks show strong performance across scientific knowledge, multimodal understanding, and multilingual tasks. Flash-Lite is designed for high-volume tasks, offering a cheaper alternative to the Pro model for repetitive executions. Its pricing strategy makes it a more affordable option compared to certain competitors. Early feedback highlights its speed and reliability for various applications. Both models are available through Google AI Studio and Vertex AI, but require internet connectivity. Gemini 3.1 aims to provide both powerful reasoning and scalable execution for enterprise needs. The model's key message is that intelligence at scale is now more accessible with a lowered barrier to entry.