Recent reports have indicated that users signing up for new Gmail accounts are receiving only 5GB of free storage, rather than the previous 15GB. However, by adding a phone number to their account, users can "unlock" the full 15GB at no additional cost. Google has provided clarity on this matter.
In a statement to Android Authority, a Google spokesperson explained that this approach is part of a testing phase aimed at ensuring the continued provision of a "high-quality storage service" for users.
New Gmail Accounts with Limited Storage
Google stated, "We’re testing a new storage policy for new accounts created in select regions that will help us continue to provide a high-quality storage service to our users, while encouraging users to improve their account security and data recovery." The specific regions for this testing have not been disclosed.
For existing accounts, it appears that users who have added a phone number to their Google account will still receive the standard 15GB of shared storage across Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Photos. This is supported by an update on Google's support page, which now states, "Each Google Account includes up to 15 GB of storage," rather than simply stating that it includes 15 GB of storage.
