Google Cloud release notes for March 2026 cover updates across AI infrastructure, security, Kubernetes, and data services.
•AI Hypercomputer and Compute Engine: compact placement policies for standalone Flex-start VMs are now generally available, reducing network latency for AI/ML workloads
•Google SecOps: chronicle.soarAnalyst, soarViewer, soarEngineer Cloud IAM roles are deprecated and will be removed in six months; users should migrate to custom or pre-defined roles
•GKE (2026-R8): version 1.34.3-gke.1318000 is now the default for cluster creation, with new auto-upgrade targets across 1.29–1.35 minor versions
•Generative AI on Vertex AI: Gemini 3.1 Flash Image (gemini-3.1-flash-image) enters public preview with improved pricing and latency
•BigQuery: legacy SQL use will be restricted effective June 1, 2026 based on usage patterns between November 2025 and June 2026
Google Cloud Platform (GCP) - Release notes