Google recently introduced the Google Developer Program, a free initiative to empower developers with resources for creating applications utilizing Google services. After attracting “millions” of developers to the program, Google has now launched a premium tier to monetize the initiative.
The newly launched Google Developer Program premium membership offers a $299-per-year upgrade from the standard program. It includes personalized consultations with Google Cloud experts, access to e-learning courses in Google’s on-demand training platform, Google Cloud Skills Boost, and more.
In addition to consultations and courses, premium members receive $500 in annual Google Cloud credits, a certification voucher, and extra credits for passing a Google Cloud certification. This premium tier also provides all the benefits of the free program, such as AI-enabled documentation, coding tools, early access to new products, and workspaces in Google’s IDX app development platform.
Unlike its cloud competitors, Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Azure, Google’s premium membership stands out for its individual developer-focused features. While Microsoft offers paid versions of its Microsoft 365 Developer Program for businesses, AWS concentrates on premium support programs for architectural guidance and technical assistance.
For customers in certain regions, including the European Economic Region, the U.K., and Switzerland, the Google Developer Program premium membership is limited to business or professional use only, as per the terms and conditions provided by Google.
Despite the additional benefits, some developers may be disappointed to see new features exclusive to the paid tier, as there was no prior indication from Google regarding charging for enhanced features. Google has plans to introduce more tools and resources to the Google Developer Program in the future, encouraging developers to sign up for the program.
The Google Developer Program premium membership is positioned as a revamped version of the discontinued Cloud Innovators Plus program, offering similar benefits at the same $299-per-year price. Notably, the new membership includes Google Cloud Skills Boost, estimated by Google to have a value equivalent to $299 per year.
In a recent announcement, Google emphasized the premium membership as part of their commitment to enhancing the developer experience and expanding the benefits available across their developer products and services.
Despite potential complaints from developers, Google’s cloud business has shown impressive growth compared to its competitors in the most recent quarter, indicating strong support for the company’s initiatives among developers.
