Google Tests Reducing Free Storage to 5GB for New Accounts, Requires Phone Verification for Full 15GB
Key Takeaways
- ▸Google is testing a storage allocation reduction from 15GB to 5GB for new accounts in select regions, with phone verification needed to restore full benefits
- ▸The policy links account security (phone verification) with storage benefits, potentially expanding Google's phone number collection for new accounts
- ▸Documentation changes suggest this test may become a standard policy as Google manages cloud storage costs and demand
Summary
Google is testing a new storage policy for newly created accounts that reduces the default free allocation from 15GB to 5GB in select regions. Users can restore the full 15GB by linking and verifying their phone numbers, which Google frames as a security and fraud-prevention measure. The company subtly changed its support documentation language from guaranteeing "15 GB" to stating "up to 15 GB" sometime between early February and late March. In a statement to Engadget, Google described the move as a regional test designed to maintain service quality while encouraging "users to improve their account security and data recovery." Notably, the rollout is inconsistent—some users still receive the full 15GB allocation without verification, confirming this is a limited test rather than a universal policy change.
- Uneven regional rollout confirms this is still experimental, though the language change indicates Google may be preparing for broader adoption
