Addressing Antigravity Bans and Reinstating Access
Google Gemini CLI users faced "Antigravity bans" for using unauthorized third-party tools, sparking fears of broader account lockouts due to Google's integrated ecosystem. While Google offers a path to reinstatement for first-time offenders, the incident reignites a contentious debate on corporate control over user access and the opaque nature of platform bans. Many on HN decry the lack of transparency and the risk of losing essential services over what some deem as anticompetitive practices.
The Lowdown
Google recently announced steps to address "Antigravity bans" that impacted users of its Gemini CLI and Gemini Code Assist services. These bans were initiated due to violations of Antigravity's Terms of Service, specifically targeting users employing third-party tools or proxies to access Antigravity resources and quotas. The company acknowledged the disruption caused by these actions, which inadvertently blocked access to related Gemini services.
- Mass Unban Initiative: Google is implementing a system-wide automated unban for all accounts recently flagged for these ToS breaches. Affected users are expected to regain access within one to two days, serving as a reset before transitioning to a more structured compliance process.
- New Reinstatement Process: For future ToS violations, Google plans a self-service reinstatement. Users will receive specific notifications and error messages, directing them to a Google Form. This form requires users to review and recertify their commitment to the terms, particularly regarding bypassing system measures.
- Two-Strike Policy: Upon form submission, accounts will be automatically reinstated, typically within a day or two. However, a second ToS violation will result in a permanent ban.
- Clarified Policy: Google explicitly stated that using third-party software to piggyback on Gemini CLI's OAuth for backend services is a direct violation of its terms. The company frames this new process as a fair method for users who unintentionally broke the ToS to rectify their status, while maintaining service security and availability.
The announcement aims to mitigate user frustration by offering a clearer path for remediation, but it also underscores the delicate balance between platform security, fair use, and user autonomy within Google's extensive service ecosystem.
The Gossip
Google's Gripes & Grumbles
Many users expressed deep concern over Google's practice of banning accounts, fearing that violations in one service (like Gemini CLI) could lead to a "digital death sentence" by blocking access to critical integrated services like Gmail. Commenters highlighted Google's notorious lack of human support for ban appeals and the opacity of their enforcement, arguing for clearer distinctions between service-specific and overall account bans. While some found Google's response "refreshing" compared to other AI providers, the overwhelming sentiment was one of apprehension regarding Google's consolidated account policies.
ToS Tug-of-War
The discussion delved into the specifics of *why* Google is enforcing these bans, with some arguing it's an anticompetitive move designed to force users into Google's own tools. Others countered that users were exploiting "all-you-can-eat" subscriptions by using third-party tools like OpenClaw, which consume tokens at a much higher rate than intended by official clients. There was debate over whether bans should be preceded by warnings, especially for paying customers, and the responsibility when third-party tools advertise compatibility with Google services.
AI's Authoritarian Aftermath
One thought-provoking thread considered the broader implications of large corporations controlling AI services that might eventually "replace all employees." The concern raised was about the potential for these powerful entities to "furlough" or ban AI agents, effectively crippling businesses reliant on them, based on shifting moral landscapes or market strategies. This highlighted a nascent fear of external control over future critical AI infrastructure.