There was enough of an outcry that they were forced to implement a way to keep it free if all you used was email (and checked the “noncommercial” box).
really? because all I use is email but i dont recall that option
There used to be large banners and numerous emails warning about this. The deadline has passed now but you can get the “non commercial” flag enabled by going to the help center and asking for it in the chat bot.
Right, i guess i missed them or dismissed and forgot about them because i m using it for commercial purposes anyway