Google Tests 5GB Storage Limit for New Unverified Accounts
Google is testing a policy reducing free cloud storage for new accounts from 15GB to 5GB in select regions, primarily Africa. Users can restore the full 15GB allowance by verifying their phone number, a measure Google claims enhances security and combats spam. While existing users remain unaffected, the change has sparked privacy concerns regarding data collection. This trial highlights tech giants' shifting strategies to balance free service costs with security verification, potentially influencing future global policies if the test proves successful.
Editorial summary awaiting refresh
Cross-source coverage
Wire timeline
Google Tests Limiting Free Gmail Storage to 5GB for New Users Without Phone Verification
Google has confirmed it is testing a new storage policy that may reduce the default free cloud storage for new Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Photos accounts from 15GB to 5GB. Reports indicate that in select regions, new users are presented with a choice during account setup: accept the reduced 5GB limit or verify their phone number to unlock the full 15GB allowance. A Google spokesperson stated that this initiative aims to maintain high-quality service while encouraging improved account security and data recovery. The company views phone verification as a critical tool to combat spam, prevent abuse, and hinder the creation of multiple fraudulent accounts. Although Google has not specified the exact countries involved in the trial, early user reports suggest the test is currently active in certain African nations. It remains unclear whether this is a temporary experiment or a precursor to a global rollout. Importantly, existing Gmail users who already possess 15GB of free storage are not expected to be affected by this potential policy shift. The move highlights Google's ongoing efforts to balance resource allocation with platform integrity and security measures.
The Indian ExpressGoogle Clarifies Rumors: 5GB Free Storage Test for New Accounts in Select Regions
Google has officially addressed recent rumors concerning a reduction in free cloud storage for new user accounts. While reports indicated that new users were receiving only 5GB of free storage instead of the standard 15GB, a Google spokesperson confirmed to Android Authority that this is part of a limited test in selected regions. The company stated that the initiative aims to enhance storage service quality, strengthen account security, and improve data recovery processes. Importantly, existing users who have linked their phone numbers will continue to enjoy the full 15GB of free storage across Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Photos. The specific regions involved in this trial have not been disclosed. Additionally, Google updated its support documentation to reflect that accounts include a maximum of 15GB of storage, rather than guaranteeing it for every new sign-up. This move appears to be a strategic adjustment to manage resources and security for new accounts while maintaining legacy benefits for established users.
India Today | Latest StoriesGoogle Tests 5GB Initial Gmail Storage Limit, Unlocking Full 15GB With Phone Number
Google is currently trialing a modified storage policy for new Gmail accounts in select regions, temporarily reducing the initial free storage allocation from the standard 15GB to 5GB. According to reports confirmed by Android Authority, this change is not a permanent reduction but a conditional test. Users who create new accounts in these affected areas will initially receive only 5GB of shared storage across Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Photos. However, the full 15GB allowance is restored immediately once the user adds a verified phone number to their account details. This move appears designed to encourage identity verification and reduce spam or bot accounts, leveraging phone numbers as a trust signal. The article clarifies that this is strictly a test phase applicable only to new sign-ups in specific geographic locations, not a global policy shift for existing users. TechRadar emphasizes that Google is not ending its generous free storage tier but is instead introducing a friction point during registration to enhance security and data quality. The initiative highlights the ongoing balance between user convenience and platform integrity in large-scale cloud services.
Latest from TechRadarGoogle Tests Reducing Free Gmail Storage for Unverified Accounts
Google is currently testing a new storage policy for Gmail in select regions that significantly reduces the default free storage space for new accounts. Under this trial, users who do not link a mobile phone number during registration will receive only 5 GB of storage, a decrease from the standard 15 GB allowance established in 2018. The full 15 GB capacity remains available to those who verify their identity with a phone number. This development was initially reported by users on Reddit and subsequently confirmed by Google to Android Authority. The company states that the initiative aims to enhance service quality, strengthen account security, and improve recovery options. However, the move has sparked mixed reactions; while some view it as a necessary step to combat spam and bot accounts, others criticize it as a tactic to collect more personal data. This test marks a potential shift in Google's long-standing generous storage model, especially as the company integrates more AI-driven features like Gemini into its ecosystem, increasing reliance on user data for personalized services.
ExameGoogle Tests 5GB Free Gmail Storage Limit for New Accounts
Google has confirmed it is currently testing a reduced 5GB free storage limit for new Gmail accounts in select regions. Users affected by this test can unlock the standard 15GB of free storage by verifying their identity with a phone number. While Google has not officially specified the targeted regions, user reports indicate that the changes are primarily impacting new sign-ups in African countries. Industry observers suggest this move may be an effort to discourage the creation of multiple accounts solely for accessing free cloud storage. If the test proves successful, Google may expand this policy globally. Notably, existing Gmail accounts with 15GB of free storage will not be affected by this change. Evidence of this shift includes recent updates to Google's support page, which now describes free storage as "up to 15GB," a phrasing absent in earlier versions. This adjustment signals a potential end to the universal 15GB free tier for new users, marking a significant change in Google's consumer cloud storage strategy.
SlashdotNew Gmail Accounts May Face 5GB Storage Limit, With a Workaround Available
Google is currently testing a policy change that would reduce the free cloud storage allocation for new Gmail accounts from 15GB to just 5GB. This shift, confirmed by Google to Android Authority, aims to encourage improved account security and data recovery practices. Currently, the test is primarily being conducted in select African regions and does not impact existing accounts that retain their 15GB allowance. However, users creating new accounts in these test regions face the reduced limit unless they apply a specific workaround. By attaching a phone number to their new account, users can bypass the 5GB restriction and restore the full 15GB of free storage. Google notes that linking a phone number enhances security through features like two-factor authentication. As this is only a test phase, it remains uncertain whether this policy will be adopted globally. Tech analysts suggest that individuals without a Gmail account might consider registering soon to secure the higher storage limit before any potential widespread implementation. The article highlights both the potential inconvenience for new users and the simple technical fix available to mitigate the change.
MashableGoogle Tests 5GB Storage Limit for New Gmail Accounts in Select Regions
Google is currently testing a significant policy change that would reduce the free cloud storage allocation for new Gmail accounts from the longstanding 15GB to just 5GB. This trial is reportedly being conducted in select regions, primarily within African countries, and does not affect existing users who will retain their current storage limits. Google stated that this adjustment aims to maintain high-quality service standards while encouraging users to enhance account security and data recovery measures. However, the company has provided a straightforward workaround for new users: attaching a verified phone number to the account restores the full 15GB of free storage. This requirement aligns with Google's emphasis on security, as phone verification enables two-factor authentication. As this is currently a test phase, it remains uncertain whether this policy will be implemented globally. Tech experts suggest that individuals without a Gmail account might consider creating one soon to secure the higher storage limit before any potential widespread rollout. The move highlights ongoing tensions between free service provisions and infrastructure costs in cloud computing.
MashableGoogle Quietly Reduces Free Storage to 5GB for Unverified New Accounts
Google has silently implemented a policy change reducing the free cloud storage allocation for new user accounts from 15 GB to 5 GB unless a phone number is provided for verification. This adjustment, discovered by users on Reddit and verified by tech outlets like 9to5Google, applies specifically to new registrations for Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Photos. Existing accounts remain unaffected by this restriction. The primary purpose of the phone number requirement is to verify user identity, thereby reducing anonymous usage. However, reports indicate that users can initially sign up without a phone number and add it later to upgrade their storage limit back to the full 15 GB. Google has not issued an official announcement regarding this shift. Instead, the company subtly updated its support documentation in March 2026, changing the language from guaranteeing 15 GB to stating accounts come with up to 15 GB. Users unwilling to share personal phone numbers are encouraged to subscribe to paid Google One plans, which start at $19.99 annually for 100 GB of storage.
PCWorldGoogle Tests Reducing Free Storage to 5 GB for New Accounts Without Phone Numbers
Google is currently testing a new storage policy for new user accounts in select regions, potentially reducing the free storage allocation from 15 GB to 5 GB unless the user provides a telephone number. The initiative aims to enhance account security and data recovery while curbing the creation of multiple accounts solely for additional storage space. Although not all new users are affected, as some still receive the full 15 GB, the test signals a possible shift in how tech vendors balance free services with data collection requirements. A Google spokesperson stated the change helps maintain high-quality service standards. This move aligns Google’s free tier more closely with Apple’s iCloud, which also offers 5 GB by default, though it remains more generous than Proton Mail’s 1 GB free tier. Critics and users on platforms like Reddit have expressed concern over privacy implications and the increasing demand for personal data in exchange for basic digital services. If implemented globally, this policy could prompt privacy-conscious users to seek alternative email providers, highlighting growing tensions between convenience, storage needs, and personal data privacy in the tech industry.
www.theregister.com - ArticlesGoogle Tests Reduced 5GB Free Cloud Storage Limit for New Accounts
Google is reportedly testing a new storage policy that initially restricts new user accounts to 5GB of free cloud storage, a significant reduction from the standard 15GB allowance. This change was first identified by a Reddit user who noticed the limitation during account setup. The notification indicated that users could unlock the full 15GB of storage by linking and verifying a phone number, a measure intended to enhance account security and facilitate data recovery. Although Google has not issued a widespread public announcement, the company confirmed to Android Authority that it is indeed testing this new approach for new accounts. Interestingly, Google's official support pages still state that new accounts receive up to 15GB of free storage, suggesting the test is not yet universally applied or officially documented. The move appears to be a strategic effort to combat abuse and improve security verification processes rather than a permanent reduction in free tier benefits for all users. This development highlights ongoing adjustments in tech giants' strategies to balance user acquisition with security infrastructure costs.
Latest from Tom's HardwareGoogle Tests Reduced 5GB Initial Free Cloud Storage for New Accounts
Google is reportedly testing a new cloud storage policy that limits new user accounts to an initial 5GB of free storage, a significant reduction from the standard 15GB allowance. This change was first identified by a Reddit user who noticed the restriction during account setup. The notification indicated that users could unlock the full 15GB of free storage by linking and verifying a phone number with their account. While Google has not issued a broad public announcement or updated its support pages to reflect this shift, the company confirmed to Android Authority that it is testing a new approach designed to enhance account security and facilitate data recovery. This move suggests a strategic pivot where maximum free storage is contingent upon additional security verification steps rather than being automatically granted. The discrepancy between the live test and official documentation highlights the experimental nature of the policy. As of now, the change appears to affect only a subset of new accounts, indicating a phased rollout or A/B testing phase. Users and tech observers are monitoring the situation to see if this becomes a permanent global policy, which would mark a notable change in Google's long-standing free tier offerings for Gmail and Drive services.
Latest from Tom's HardwareGoogle Limits Free Storage to 5GB for New Users in Select Regions
Google has introduced a new storage policy for new accounts in select regions, limiting default free cloud storage to 5GB instead of the standard 15GB. This change, first spotted by Reddit users and later confirmed by Google, requires users to link a phone number to their account to unlock the full 15GB capacity. Google states that this measure is designed to enhance account security, facilitate data recovery, and ensure that storage benefits are allocated only once per person. While the company has not officially specified which regions are affected, reports suggest impacts in parts of Africa and India, where users encountered mandatory phone verification during account setup. The update is reflected in Google's support documentation, which now describes the free tier as offering "up to 15 GB" of storage. This shift follows previous reductions in free storage perks, such as the end of unlimited Google Photos storage in 2021. Although speculation exists regarding a connection to rising storage hardware costs driven by AI demand, Google attributes the change primarily to security and anti-abuse measures. The move marks a significant adjustment to one of Gmail's long-standing unconditional benefits.
PCMag.com - Technology Product Reviews, News, Prices & TipsWhy Gmail’s Latest Storage Change Should Make Everyone Upset
Google is currently testing a controversial change to its Gmail service, restricting new users in certain regions to only 5GB of free cloud storage unless they provide a phone number to unlock the standard 15GB allowance. While Google asserts this measure enhances account security and facilitates data recovery, critics argue it is a manipulative tactic to harvest personal data. The article highlights that SMS-based authentication is less secure than modern alternatives like passkeys and prone to SIM swap attacks. Furthermore, the author notes that spammers can easily bypass this using burner numbers, rendering the security benefit questionable while inconveniencing legitimate users. The 5GB cap also impacts Google Drive and WhatsApp backups. The piece contrasts this approach with competitors like Apple, which offers similar storage without ads, and Microsoft Outlook, which provides 15GB freely. Ultimately, the author expresses concern over Google's track record, suggesting the company is leveraging essential storage space to coerce users into sharing sensitive contact information, a move described as shady despite potential security merits.
Android AuthorityAnalysis: Why Gmail's New Storage Restriction Should Concern Users
Google is currently testing a controversial change to its Gmail service, restricting new users in certain regions to only 5GB of free cloud storage unless they provide a phone number to unlock the standard 15GB cap. While Google asserts this measure aims to enhance account security and improve data recovery, critics argue it effectively holds storage capacity hostage to harvest personal data. The article highlights that while phone numbers aid recovery, they are less secure than passkeys against SIM swap attacks and phishing. Furthermore, the move is viewed as a tactic to combat spammers, though cybercriminals often utilize burner numbers anyway. The author expresses concern over Google's track record, noting that this strategy feels manipulative compared to competitors like Apple, which offers similar storage without ads, or Microsoft and Yahoo, which provide 15-20GB freely. The restriction also impacts Google Drive and WhatsApp backups, raising significant privacy and usability issues for users who wish to maintain anonymity or avoid sharing additional personal information with the tech giant.
Android AuthorityGoogle Confirms Testing Reduced 5GB Free Storage for New Gmail Accounts
Google has officially confirmed to Android Authority that it is experimenting with a new storage policy that limits free cloud storage to 5GB for some newly created Gmail accounts. This change marks a significant reduction from the standard 15GB allowance previously offered to all users. According to a company spokesperson, the test is currently active in select regions and aims to maintain high-quality service while encouraging users to enhance account security and data recovery measures. Although Google did not specify the exact locations involved, user reports indicate that the restriction is primarily affecting new sign-ups in African countries. The company suggests this move may also help discourage the creation of multiple accounts solely for accessing free storage. Existing Gmail accounts with 15GB of storage remain unaffected by this trial. Notably, Google recently updated its support documentation to state users receive "up to" 15GB of storage, hinting at potential broader implementation if the test proves successful. This development signals a possible shift in Google's long-standing free storage model, potentially impacting future user acquisition strategies globally.
Android AuthorityGoogle May Limit New Gmail Users to 5GB Storage Unless Phone Number Linked
Google is reportedly testing a new storage policy for free Gmail accounts that would limit new users to 5GB of storage, a significant reduction from the standard 15GB allowance. According to a screenshot shared by Reddit user u/sungusungu and reported by MobileSyrup, this limitation appears during the sign-up process for new accounts. However, the report indicates that users can restore the full 15GB of storage by linking their mobile phone number to the account. This move suggests Google is leveraging storage incentives to encourage phone number verification, likely aimed at reducing spam, bot accounts, and abuse on its platform. While the change is currently described as a test, it highlights a potential shift in how Google manages free tier resources and user verification. The article notes that the toggle option to increase storage is presented directly within the signup flow, making the trade-off between privacy (providing a phone number) and utility (storage space) explicit for new registrants. This development is significant for users who prefer to keep their phone numbers unlinked from their email services for privacy reasons.
MobileSyrup