Google Clarifies Changes in Free Cloud Storage Testing
Google has officially responded to recent reports claiming that new users are receiving only 5GB of free storage instead of the usual 15GB offered with Google accounts. The company confirmed that it is currently testing a new storage policy in select regions for newly created accounts.
The issue gained attention after several users reported seeing only 5GB of free cloud storage while creating a new Google account. According to the reports, users were later asked to verify their mobile numbers to unlock the full 15GB storage limit.
Google Says the Change Is Part of a Test
In a statement shared with Android Authority, a Google spokesperson clarified that the company is experimenting with different storage policies in selected regions.
According to Google, the testing aims to improve storage quality, account security, and data recovery options for users. The company also wants to encourage users to add recovery information, such as phone numbers, to make accounts safer and easier to recover.
Google has not revealed the exact countries or regions where this test is currently active.
Existing Users Will Continue to Get 15GB Free Storage
Google confirmed that the changes mainly affect some newly created accounts in testing regions. Existing users who already have Google accounts linked with verified phone numbers will continue to receive the standard 15GB of free cloud storage.
The free storage space can still be used across:
- Gmail
- Google Drive
- Google Photos
This means most current users are unlikely to see any immediate change in their available storage.
Google Updates Its Support Page
The company has also quietly updated its official support page regarding free storage limits.
Previously, the support page clearly stated that every Google account includes 15GB of free storage. However, the wording has now been changed to say that Google accounts include “up to 15GB” of storage.
This small change sparked speculation online, with many users wondering whether Google planned to permanently reduce free cloud storage for everyone.
What Triggered the Rumors?
The controversy started after media reports highlighted cases where new users were initially offered only 5GB of free storage during account setup.
In several cases, users reportedly received a message asking them to confirm their mobile numbers. After verification, Google offered access to the full 15GB storage plan.
This led to widespread discussions on social media, with many users assuming that Google was permanently reducing free cloud storage limits.
Why Phone Number Verification Matters
Google appears to be focusing more on account verification and security. By encouraging users to add phone numbers, the company may be trying to:
- Reduce fake or spam accounts
- Improve account recovery options
- Enhance overall account security
- Prevent misuse of free storage services
Phone verification also helps users recover lost accounts more easily in case they forget passwords or lose device access.
No Official Announcement About Permanent Changes
At the moment, Google has not announced any permanent reduction in free storage for all users. The company has described the move as a limited test designed to study user behavior and improve service quality.
For now, most Google users worldwide will continue receiving 15GB of free cloud storage across Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Photos.
However, the testing shows that Google may be exploring new ways to balance free storage offerings with security and service improvements in the future.