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Google requiring all ‘G Suite legacy free edition’ users to start paying (9to5google.com)

660 points by codyogden · 1703 days ago · 1070 comments on HN

Article summary

Google is discontinuing the G Suite legacy free edition and requiring users to upgrade to a paid Google Workspace subscription. Users have until June 1 to select a new plan, with billing starting at least two months later. Plans start at $6 per user per month, with discounts available for 12 months. Users who do not enter billing details by August 1 will have their accounts suspended and eventually lose access to core services like Gmail and Google Meet.

Main themes

  • G Suite legacy free edition discontinuation
  • Google Workspace paid subscription
  • Alternative email services
  • Custom domain email hosting
  • Email server setup
  • Migration challenges
  • Cost and pricing concerns
  • User frustration and criticism

What commenters say

  • Some users are considering setting up their own mail servers to avoid paying for Google Workspace, but this can be difficult and may not be a viable option for everyone.
  • Others are looking into alternative email services, such as FastMail, Outlook, or Migadu, to replace their G Suite accounts.
  • A few commenters are frustrated with the lack of affordable options for custom domain email hosting and feel forced to choose between expensive or inconvenient solutions.
  • Some users are concerned about the potential consequences of migrating to a new email service, such as losing access to files in Google Drive or disrupting their existing email setup.
  • There are differing opinions on the best alternative email services, with some users recommending FastMail or Migadu, while others prefer Outlook or other options.
  • A few commenters are critical of Google's decision to discontinue the G Suite legacy free edition, feeling that it is unfair to charge users for a service that was previously free.
  • Some users are exploring options for hosting their own email servers, but are aware of the challenges and potential pitfalls of doing so.
  • Others are resigned to paying for Google Workspace, but are looking for ways to minimize the cost, such as taking advantage of discounts or using alternative services for certain features.