Google Explains Why Some New Users Are Getting Only 5GB Free Drive Storage Instead of 15GB
Recent reports suggested that Google quietly began making changes to its cloud storage policy without any major announcement. Several users noticed that while creating a new Google account, they were being offered only 5GB of free Google Drive storage instead of the 15GB free storage that had previously been available.
However, users also saw a message stating that they could regain the full 15GB free storage by adding a phone number to their account. The move is believed to be aimed at preventing people from creating multiple Gmail accounts solely to gain extra free storage.
Google has also updated the wording on its support website. Earlier, it clearly stated that users would receive 15GB of free storage, but now the company says Google accounts come with “up to 15GB of free cloud storage.”
Archived records and older versions of the support page indicate that this wording change started appearing around February, suggesting that Google had been planning this adjustment for quite some time.
Google Finally Clarifies the Reason
After staying silent for a while, Google has now explained the reason behind the change.
In a statement shared with Android Authority, the company said:
“We’re testing a new storage policy for new accounts created in select regions that will help us continue providing a high-quality storage experience while encouraging users to strengthen account security and improve data recovery.”
According to Google, the test is currently limited to certain regions and is primarily focused on improving security and reducing misuse.
Existing Users Don’t Need to Worry — For Now
So far, users who already have 15GB of free storage do not appear to be affected by this change. However, Google has not clearly stated whether this move is only intended to prevent misuse or if broader changes to its free storage policy may arrive in the future.
Google has long required phone verification in many account creation scenarios. Still, there were situations where users could create an account without a phone number — such as while setting up a new smartphone without a SIM card.
Under the new system, even those users may now need to verify a phone number to receive the full 15GB storage allowance. Otherwise, they could remain limited to just 5GB of free storage.
Google Recently Expanded Benefits for Premium Users
Interestingly, while Google is experimenting with reduced free storage for some users, it is also expanding benefits for paid subscribers.
Earlier this year, Google increased cloud storage for Google Pro users from 2TB to 5TB. Premium subscribers also receive:
- Access to newer Gemini AI models
- Gemini integration in Gmail and Docs
- Higher limits in NotebookLM
- Additional AI features
- Access to AI video generation through Veo 3
The move highlights Google’s growing focus on premium services while also introducing stricter measures around free storage usage.
