How do I choose between the two Gemini 3.5 Flash endpoints?
Use Chat Completions, set model to gemini-3.5-flash, organize text and images in messages, and read responses from choices; for streaming interactions, handle incremental updates as described in the documentation. The capabilities and message format of native Generate Content should be verified independently; do not infer that the platform exposes all features from the vendor's native specification.
How can I make Gemini 3.5 Flash analyze images?
In Chat Completions, write message content as an array of content blocks, combining text and image_url, and place an accessible image URL or Base64 data URI in image_url.url. The text should specify the objects of interest and output requirements, such as extracting fields, comparing differences, or explaining charts.
Can I have it read PDFs?
Prepare the document text, table data, or clear page screenshots relevant to the question, and specify whether you need a summary, comparison, or particular information extracted. Submit content in formats supported by the selected public API; a PDF URL cannot be used as image_url. Request that results retain original-text locations, field evidence, and unconfirmed items, and verify key numbers against the source material.
Why are tokens consumed but no final text is returned?
Gemini 3.5 Flash uses reasoning tokens, and an output budget that is too small may be exhausted before the final answer is formed. The usage guide recommends setting max_tokens to 512 or higher; complex tasks should allow even more space, and you should use finish_reason, usage, and the actual text to determine whether the budget needs to be increased.
Is it the same invocation name as gemini-3-flash-preview?
No. Google lists gemini-3.5-flash as Stable and gemini-3-flash-preview as Preview. To call this model, use the full ID gemini-3.5-flash; when replacing models, especially retest structured outputs, tool loops, and long-task performance rather than putting it into use immediately after only changing the name.