Google has announced significant updates to Google Workspace, including the integration of Gemini AI – a suite of artificial intelligence tools designed to boost productivity and collaboration. Alongside these features, Google is implementing pricing increases for both flexible and annual plans, effective from April 1, 2025, for all existing customers. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what UK organisations need to know.

#1: Key Google Workspace Gemini AI Features
Gmail:
AI-powered tools for summarising lengthy email threads.
Intelligent drafting assistance for quick and accurate responses.
Enhanced search functionality for better email management.
Docs:
AI-assisted writing and editing to refine content effortlessly.
Document summarisation for faster insights.
Sheets:
Automated table and formula generation.
Data summarisation and visualisation tools.
Google Meet:
The "Take notes for me" feature automatically captures meeting highlights, action items, and key moments.
Personalised notebook customisation with instant insights.
Audio overviews of meeting content and documents.
#2: Pricing Changes
The new pricing structure will come into effect for existing customers on April 1, 2025, and for new customers immediately. Gemini AI features are included at no additional cost in eligible plans.
Plan | Flexible Pricing (per user/month) | Annual Pricing (per user/month) | Gemini AI Features |
Business Starter | £7.00 | £5.90 | Limited |
Business Standard | £14.00 | £11.80 | Fully Included |
Business Plus | £22.00 | £18.40 | Fully Included |
Flexible Pricing: Month-to-month billing, ideal for businesses with variable workforce sizes.
Annual Pricing: Discounted rates for businesses committing to a 12-month term.
Nonprofit organisations will continue to have access to Gemini AI features without pricing adjustments.
All prices are plus VAT.
When Will the Price Increases Take Effect?
New Customers: The updated pricing structure is effective immediately for all new subscriptions.
Existing Customers: Changes take effect on April 1, 2025. This provides organisations time to review their current plans and adjust accordingly.
#3: How These Changes Benefit UK Businesses
Enhanced Productivity: Save time on repetitive tasks like email drafting, document summarisation, and data analysis.
Improved Collaboration: AI-powered insights help teams align and work more efficiently.
Future-Proofing: Access cutting-edge AI tools to stay ahead in a competitive market.
#4: Speculation: Will Microsoft Follow Google’s Lead in the UK?
With Google rolling out advanced AI capabilities via Gemini AI in Google Workspace and implementing associated pricing changes, the question arises: will Microsoft adopt a similar strategy with Microsoft 365Â and its Copilot AIÂ offerings in the UK?
Recent developments in the Asia-Pacific region suggest that Microsoft is already testing the waters for price adjustments related to Microsoft 365 and Copilot integrations. Reports indicate that Microsoft plans to increase pricing for Copilot-enabled plans by up to 15% in select regions starting later this year . If successful, these changes may extend to the UK market, particularly as demand for AI-driven tools grows among businesses and organisations.
Microsoft Copilot AI: What We Know So Far
Microsoft 365 Copilot integrates AI capabilities into familiar Office apps like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Teams, empowering users with tools for automation, content creation, and data analysis. Copilot is currently offered as an add-on to existing Microsoft 365 subscriptions, with the following features:
Word: AI-assisted writing and document generation.
Excel: Advanced data analysis and automated visualisations.
PowerPoint: AI-driven slide design and summarisation.
Teams: Real-time meeting summaries and task tracking.
Potential Pricing Changes for Microsoft 365 in the UK
While there has been no official announcement for the UK, Microsoft’s actions in other regions could provide a blueprint for future changes. Below is a speculative look at how pricing could be adjusted, based on current UK plans and the addition of Copilot AI:
Microsoft 365 Plan | Current Price (Annual, per user) | Flexible Price (Monthly, per user) | Speculated Price with Copilot |
Microsoft 365 Business Basic | £4.90 | £5.88 | £6.50 |
Microsoft 365 Business Standard | £10.30 | £12.36 | £13.50 |
Microsoft 365 Business Premium | £18.10 | £21.72 | £23.00 |
Notes:
Copilot Add-On: Currently priced at approximately £23 per user/month for eligible plans like E3 and E5.
Flexible Pricing: Month-to-month billing is typically higher than annual pricing for added flexibility.
All prices are plus VAT.
What UK Businesses Should Prepare For
Budget for Potential Increases: If Microsoft follows Google’s lead, organisations should prepare for the possibility of price increases tied to AI capabilities.
Evaluate Value of AI Tools: Consider the productivity and efficiency gains offered by Copilot and whether these justify potential cost increases.
Monitor Microsoft Announcements: Stay informed about upcoming changes by regularly checking Microsoft’s official updates.
How OCM Communications Can Help
At OCM Communications Limited, we understand the evolving landscape of productivity tools and the growing importance of AI in business operations. As a trusted Microsoft partner, we can assist your organisation in navigating changes to Microsoft 365
plans.
Microsoft 365 Expertise: We provide tailored advice on selecting the best plans for your business and optimising Microsoft 365, including Copilot integrations.
AI Strategy Development: Our team helps you identify and implement AI-driven solutions to maximise productivity and ROI.
Budget Planning: We work with you to assess potential cost impacts and future-proof your IT investments.
As AI becomes a cornerstone of productivity software, both Google and Microsoft are refining their offerings and pricing strategies. While Google’s changes are confirmed, Microsoft appears to be testing similar adjustments in specific regions, with the potential to expand globally. UK organisations should monitor these developments closely and ensure their IT strategies align with these transformative shifts.
#5: Why Choose OCM Communications?
As a trusted Google Workspace Partner and expert in Google Workspace Deployment, OCM Communications Limited provides tailored solutions for UK businesses to maximise the benefits of Google Workspace.
Expert Deployment: Seamlessly integrate Google Workspace with Gemini AI into your operations.
Customised Training: Equip your team with the skills needed to make the most of AI-driven tools.
Ongoing Support: From troubleshooting to optimising workflows, OCM ensures your systems remain efficient and effective.
Next Steps for Your Business
Assess Your Current Plan: Evaluate if your existing Google Workspace plan meets your team’s evolving needs.
Plan Your Transition: Prepare for the pricing changes and ensure your budget aligns with the new structure.
Consult OCM Communications: Get expert advice on upgrading your Workspace setup and leveraging Gemini AI features.
Partner with OCM Communications to future-proof your operations with Google Workspace and Gemini AI.Â
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