Google Changes Rules: New Accounts Now Get Only 5GB of Free Storage

Balasahana Suresh
Reports suggest that google is currently testing a major change in its account policy that could significantly reduce free cloud storage for new users.

Instead of the long-standing 15GB free storage, new accounts may now receive only 5GB by default, depending on verification conditions.

What Has Changed?

Earlier, every google account came with:

  • 15GB free shared storage (Gmail, Drive, Photos)
Now, according to recent reports:

  • New accounts may start with only 5GB free storage
  • Full 15GB may require phone number verification
Why google Is Doing This

The reported reason behind the change is to:

  • Reduce fake or spam accounts
  • Improve identity verification
  • Limit multiple accounts created for extra free storage
  • Strengthen platform security
How Users Can Still Get 15GB

Users may still unlock the original storage by:

  • Linking and verifying a phone number
  • Completing account verification during signup
Without verification, the account may remain limited to 5GB.

Who Is Affected?

  • Mainly new google accounts
  • Existing users are not affected yet
  • The change appears to be in testing or gradual rollout stage
Impact on Gmail, Drive and Photos

Since storage is shared across services, this affects:

  • Gmail emails and attachments
  • Google Drive files
  • Google Photos backups
Lower storage means users may hit limits faster than before.

Is This Official?

So far:

  • Google has not made a full public announcement
  • Reports are based on user screenshots and testing
  • It may still be an A/B test or limited rollout
Conclusion

The reported shift from 15GB to 5GB free storage for new google accounts signals a possible major change in how cloud storage is distributed. While phone verification may restore full storage access, users should wait for official confirmation before treating it as a permanent global rule.

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

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