In late September, Google Colaboratory changed their monthly subscription platform to be based on 'compute credits'.  They claim this change is for 'increased transparency' and more efficient use for Pro and Pro+ users.  In reality we can see evidence of this change not only being less transparent but also a form of deceptive business practice.  Instead of being shown in data or VRAM, the new system is based by the hour.  Multiple users have complained about being charged higher rates for the GPU they used that what was posted (15 compute credits an hour for a T4, when it should be under 2 credits per hour).  Users have mentioned that they cannot choose the GPU they are using (even though there is a premium rate for this very purpose).  Furthermore, educators and students can no longer used Google Colab in the same capacity.  Students and educators using this service for machine learning courses and education they will be nickeled-and-dimed by hourly transactions.  What was promised as a more-transparent improvement has been rolled out to be merely a micro-transaction system, similar to that in mobile gaming.  

Many are more than disappointed by this change.  Thousands of people use Google Services and spend millions on their platforms.  We can see how they can swiftly revise their policies, completely changing their services without any repercussions.  Companies like Google need to be held accountable for their policies and how they treat their customers.  Users found many benefits from all three tiers of Google Colaboratory: Pro, Pro+, and free.  Currently the benefit between free and Pro is minimal, and Pro+ is not worth the monthly fee if users cannot do what they used to with the same resources.  Please join us in making your voice heard by Google.  They are bigger than us, but we can make enough noise that they will have no choice but to change their system.  Currently we are looking into consultation from Machine Learning expert as well as a business attorney to further investigate this situation.  

We are looking for direct evidence of deceptive business practices regarding the rollout of compute units in Google Colaboratory.  Please contact neuroattaq@gmail.com, if you would like to help us in this endeavor.