Google May Reduce Free Storage for New Gmail Users
Change in Storage Policy
Google is currently testing a new policy regarding free cloud storage for new Gmail users. Under this new arrangement, individuals creating a new Gmail account may receive only 5GB of free storage, instead of the traditional 15GB. This adjustment will apply unless users opt to attach a phone number to their account.
The change was brought to attention when several users reported experiencing different options during the setup process for their Google accounts. Rather than the usual 15GB of free storage, shared across Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Photos, users encountered two distinct choices: they could either proceed with 5GB of storage or add a phone number to their account in order to unlock the full 15GB of storage.
Google’s Confirmation and Rationale
In a statement, Google confirmed that the new storage policy is still in the testing phase. A spokesperson for the company 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.”
According to reports, Google views phone number verification as a strategy to mitigate spam and abuse within its platform. The company has a history of utilizing phone verification for various purposes, including helping users recover their accounts, preventing unauthorized sign-ins, and complicating the creation of multiple accounts that could lead to misuse.
Scope of the Change
At present, this policy appears to be limited to new Google account registrations in selected regions. However, Google has not disclosed the specific countries involved in this trial. Early reports from users indicate that many of these cases originated from African nations. The tech giant has yet to clarify whether this testing is a temporary measure or part of a larger, more permanent change in its policy.
Existing Gmail users, on the other hand, currently face no changes to their storage allowance. Individuals who have already secured the standard 15GB of free storage should remain unaffected by these developments, even if the trial expands in the future.
