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

Balasahana Suresh
Google is reportedly testing a major change to its storage policy that could significantly affect new users creating google accounts in 2026. Instead of the long-standing 15GB of free storage, some new accounts are now seeing only 5GB of free storage by default.

📦 What Has Changed?

Traditionally, every google account came with:

  • 15GB free storage
  • Shared across Gmail, google Drive, and google Photos
But now:

  • Some new users are being offered only 5GB by default
  • The full 15GB can be unlocked by linking/verifying a phone number
📱 Why Is google Doing This?

Google has not officially confirmed a permanent change for everyone, but reports suggest the move is part of a test or policy adjustment.

Possible reasons include:

1. Preventing Fake Accounts

  • Phone verification helps stop users from creating multiple accounts just for free storage
2. Reducing Storage Abuse

  • Large-scale free storage usage increases infrastructure costs
3. Encouraging Account Security

  • Phone-linked accounts are harder to misuse or spam
🔓 How to Get Full 15GB Storage

Even under the new system:

  • Add/verify a phone number during account creation
  • This unlocks the standard 15GB free storage
So in most cases, users can still get the full storage—but only after verification.

📊 Old vs New Policy (Simple Comparison)

Feature

Earlier Policy

New Test Policy

Free storage

15GB

5GB (default)

After phone verification

15GB

15GB unlocked

Requirement

No verification needed

Phone number required (in many cases)

⚠️ Is This a Permanent Change?

Not confirmed yet.

  • Google appears to be testing this change for new accounts
  • It may apply only to some regions or selected users
  • Google may adjust based on feedback
💡 What Users Should Do

If you're creating a new google account:

  • Always add a phone number during signup
  • Regularly clean google Drive & Gmail storage
  • Consider google One plans if you need more space
📌 Conclusion

Google is testing a shift where new accounts may only get 5GB of free storage unless they verify a phone number, replacing the long-standing automatic 15GB offer in some cases. However, the full 15GB is still available after verification, meaning this is more of a policy tightening rather than a complete removal of free storage.

 

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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