Google Tests Gmail Storage Cut, Angering Users

Only 5 gigabytes of free storage — that is what some users are seeing when they create a new Gmail account, a sharp drop from the standard 15 gigabytes. Recent tech reports have documented the change, which appears to be a test by Google. When a new account is created without adding a phone number, the user is presented with two options: accept the limited space, or provide a phone number to unlock the full 15GB.

The move is seen as an attempt by Google to curb the creation of multiple accounts for free storage, as well as to reduce fake accounts and spam. Observers believe the policy could spark significant backlash among users of the world’s most popular email service.

Google One: A Paid Option Gains Importance

This new policy indirectly pushes users toward the paid Google One subscription service, which offers storage plans starting at 100GB. These plans come with additional perks, including access to Gemini AI tools and integration with various Google apps. Higher-tier plans provide up to 2TB of storage, along with benefits like longer Google Meet calls and discounts on some Google Store products.

Deleting Files: A Necessity or a Choice?

Despite the option to purchase extra space, Google continues to encourage users to manage their storage manually. This involves deleting old emails, photos, and unnecessary backups from Google Photos and Google Drive. Suspicion has grown that the company intends to roll out the new policy more broadly in the future, especially after Google quietly changed its official support wording from "your account gets 15GB" to "up to 15GB."