Google tests 5GB storage limit for new accounts without phone number verification

Google is testing a new storage policy that gives some newly created accounts only 5GB of free cloud storage unless users verify their account with a phone number.

Previously, Google accounts automatically received 15GB of free storage shared across Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Photos.

Users setting up new accounts recently reported seeing a notice stating that linking a phone number would unlock the full 15GB allocation. Without verification, accounts would remain limited to 5GB.

Google later confirmed the change to Android Authority, saying the company is testing the policy in select regions. According to Google, the change is intended to improve account security and recovery while helping prevent abuse of free cloud storage.

The company also updated its support pages to state that Google accounts come with “up to 15GB” of free storage instead of a guaranteed 15GB.

Google has not announced which regions are included in the test. Existing accounts with 15GB of storage are not affected.