Vertex AI redirection loop accessing Google Console

Express Mode - trial billing account

I was trying to access the google cloud console and kept getting redirected to Vertex AI. Turns out this is a common to get trapped like this.

Navigating to
https://console.cloud.google.com/
Redirects to
https://console.cloud.google.com/vertex-ai/studio/overview...

It is to do with being locked in a trial dumb mode. The only way out is to provide a credit card for billing, it won't get charged anyhing but it allows the "Express Mode" to be exited.

You tell its Express Mode from the little Express Mode tile next to the Google logo.

Upgrade account

Use the upgrade account hyperlink to upgrade the account. What they want you to do is set up a billing payment card, even though you don't get charged unless you consume services.
After adding the payment card you will be able to access the Google Console.

There is a more comprehensive guide here:
Getting redirected to VertexAI site
Towards the bottom is a step by step guide to adding payment card.