New Gmail Accounts May Require Phone Number to Unlock Full 15GB Storage
CALIFORNIA: Google appears to be testing a new policy that could reduce free Gmail cloud storage for some new users from 15GB to 5GB unless they add a phone number to their account. According to Beyond Time News, the company confirmed it is currently experimenting with the feature in selected regions.
For years, creating a new Gmail account automatically provided users with 15GB of free cloud storage shared across Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Photos. Many users considered the storage limit sufficient for regular personal use.
However, recent reports suggest some users now receive only 5GB of storage during account creation unless they verify their account using a phone number.
Reddit Users Spot New Gmail Storage Prompt
The issue first gained attention after a Reddit user shared a screenshot showing that their newly created Gmail account included only 5GB of free storage.
The screenshot also displayed an option allowing the user to unlock the full 15GB storage limit by adding a phone number to the account.
The report quickly sparked discussions online, with many users questioning whether Google planned to permanently reduce free storage for future Gmail users.
According to Beyond Time News, several Reddit users attempted to create new accounts to test the feature themselves. Some users reported seeing prompts requesting a phone number before account setup could continue.
Meanwhile, others said their accounts still displayed the usual 15GB storage limit without requiring additional verification.
Google Says Test Focuses on Security and Recovery
Google later confirmed the test while speaking to Android Authority.
The company explained that the experiment aims to encourage users to improve account security and recovery options.
Google stated:
“We’re testing a new storage policy for new accounts created in select regions that will help us continue to provide a high-quality storage service to our users, while encouraging users to improve their account security and data recovery.”
The company suggested that linking a phone number can help users recover accounts more easily and protect against unauthorized access.
Users React With Mixed Opinions
The reported test triggered mixed reactions across social media platforms and online forums.
Some users criticised the move and argued that Google might be using the policy to collect more personal data from users.
Others, however, supported the idea and said requiring phone verification could reduce spam accounts and improve platform security.
Technology experts note that many online services already use phone verification systems to limit fake account creation and strengthen account protection.
Still, privacy-conscious users remain concerned about linking personal phone numbers to online services.
No Official Change to Gmail Storage Policy Yet
At the moment, Google has not officially announced any permanent changes to Gmail’s free storage policy.
The company’s official support pages still state that every Google account includes 15GB of free storage.
Experts believe the feature may currently be part of a limited regional test or an A/B experiment rather than a global rollout.
This means different users may experience different account setup screens depending on their location or account conditions.
As of now, existing Gmail users without phone numbers attached to their accounts continue to receive the standard 15GB storage allocation.
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Why Gmail Storage Matters
Google storage plays a major role across several services, including:
- Gmail emails and attachments
- Google Drive files and backups
- Google Photos images and videos
Once users exceed their free storage limit, they usually need to purchase additional storage through Google One subscriptions.
Reducing the free storage allowance for new users could encourage more people to verify their accounts or eventually upgrade to paid storage plans.
Experts Recommend Monitoring Official Updates
Technology analysts recommend that users wait for official confirmation before assuming the policy will become permanent worldwide.
Because the company has only confirmed testing in selected regions, many experts believe Google may still adjust or cancel the experiment depending on user feedback.
For now, users creating new Gmail accounts should carefully review setup prompts and privacy settings before adding personal information.
FAQs
Is Google reducing Gmail free storage to 5GB?
Google is currently testing a policy that gives some new users 5GB of storage unless they add a phone number.
How much free storage does Gmail normally offer?
Most Google accounts currently include 15GB of free cloud storage.
Why does Google want users to add phone numbers?
Google says phone verification improves account security and recovery options.
Are existing Gmail users affected?
No, existing Gmail users still appear to have the standard 15GB free storage limit.
Has Google officially changed its storage policy?
No, Google has only confirmed that it is testing the feature in selected regions.
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