Google Considers Reducing Free Storage to 5GB for Users Without Phone Numbers

Google is experimenting with a potential change to its account policy that may cut free cloud storage from 15GB to just 5GB for individuals who do not provide a phone number during registration.

Reports indicate that this trial is occurring in select regions, primarily in certain African nations. When creating an account, users are given two options: retain 5GB of storage or provide a phone number to access the full 15GB free allocation.

The objective of this initiative, according to Google, is to enhance account security, improve service delivery, and allow for better data recovery. However, this alteration has stirred privacy apprehensions among users wary of linking personal phone numbers to their online accounts.

In March, changes to Google’s support pages indicated a shift, altering the phrase from “15GB of cloud storage” to “up to 15GB,” which suggested that the storage offer might differ for users moving forward.

The available storage is utilized across Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Photos. Although 5GB may suffice for basic needs, it can quickly become insufficient when dealing with photos, videos, documents, and email attachments. Reaching this storage cap could prevent users from receiving new emails and hinder content uploads.

Experts speculate that this policy aims to stop users from creating numerous accounts merely to gain additional free storage. Conversely, critics contend that requiring a phone number in return for storage hampers online privacy and complicates anonymous internet usage.

This trial occurs amid rising cloud storage expenses as more users begin investigating alternative services that prioritize privacy and security.

Currently, this policy is still in the testing phase in limited areas, with no formal announcement regarding plans for a global rollout. Notably, existing Google account holders are not impacted by this change at present.