Google has been experimenting with Gmail storage limits, and some users are not happy about it. They’re now having to make room for new files by deleting old ones.

Google provides 15GB of free cloud storage that can be used across Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Photos.

Recently, some users have noticed that the company is now giving new Gmail users only 5GB of free storage.

The change seemed to affect users who created new Gmail accounts.

A Reddit user shared (via Piunikaweb) that Google “only gives the 15GB storage if I provided a phone number and 5GB storage if I decide not to add a phone number.”

Google has confirmed to Android Authority that it’s testing a new storage policy for select users.

“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,” stated Google’s spokesperson.

It’s unclear which regions have been selected for the test, but if it proves to be successful, the company may implement the 5GB free storage limit in more countries.

There shouldn’t be any changes for users who already have an account with 15GB of storage.

This change in storage policy could be prompted to minimize the creation of new accounts intended to get more free cloud storage.

Meanwhile, the company notes that providing their mobile phone number adds an extra layer of security to their account

Can you create a Gmail account without a phone number?

The situation with Google’s reduced cloud storage sparked an online debate, with many asking how it’s possible to create an account without a phone number in the first place.

“How did you get an account without a phone number?” asked one user, and many others said you need a phone number to verify the account.

Nevertheless, it’s been reported that when creating a Gmail account, adding a phone number is optional.

“On phones, you don't need a number, only on desktop it's required,” noted one Redditor.

Gmail now gives 5gb free if you sign up without phone number
by u/sungusungu in degoogle

“We've moved to the 'bribery for your data' stage, I see,” wrote another netizen about the situation.

“The bribery has been like this for years,” noted another user, with many agreeing that the “free storage” isn’t actually free since users are paying for it by providing their data.

FAQ about the new Gmail storage policy

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