The "Google Developer Program" was announced in May at I/O 2024 to offer "tools and resources to help you on your development journey." The company is now adding a paid tier to this Google Cloud-centric program.

This free program provides access to Gemini-powered developer tools that can help answer questions about documentation (Side Panel Chat), Search Summaries, and Code Explain. Membership, which involves a simple sign-up, also comes with three more Project IDX workspaces, free Cloud learning credits, badges, and early access to new products/features. Google says today that this standard membership has "millions of developers."

The company on Monday introduced a "Google Developer Program premium membership" at $299 per year. This comes with an annual $500 Google Cloud credit, with the ability to get another $500 if you "pass a Google Cloud certification each year."

You also get access to "700+ on-demand training paths on Google Cloud Skills Boost ($299/year retail value)" and a "Google Cloud certification voucher" (up to $200). Finally, there's "1-to-1 consultations with Google Cloud experts: "Need help tackling a challenging AI problem or want expert feedback on your architecture design? Book a 30 or 60-minute consultation with one of our specialists.