A test is underway where if you don't add a phone number when creating a Google account, your storage capacity will be reduced from 15GB to just 5GB.
It has been revealed that Google is testing a method to limit storage capacity in some regions to encourage users to register their phone numbers with their Google accounts. If you don't register a phone number, the amount of storage you can use will be reduced by one-third.
The era of 15GB free Gmail storage is ending (Update: Google responds) - Android Authority
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https://www.androidauthority.com/google-free-15gb-gmail-storage-ending-explanation-3667360/
In May 2026, Google received reports from some users in certain regions that 'if you don't register a phone number when creating a new Google account, your available storage capacity will be limited to 5GB.' These reports mainly came from African countries.
Typically, when you sign up for a Google account, you receive 15GB of free storage. This storage is shared across services like Gmail and Google Photos.
A screenshot shared by a Reddit user shows an option that says, 'Register your phone number to unlock 15GB of storage.'
Later, a Google spokesperson commented on the matter, revealing that they are testing capacity limits in some regions.
A spokesperson stated, 'We are testing a new storage policy for newly created accounts in certain regions. This policy aims to continue providing users with high-quality storage services while also encouraging them to improve their own account security and data recovery capabilities.'
Android Authority, a technology media outlet, has pointed out that the wording on Google's storage help page has subtly changed. At the time of writing , it says, 'Each Google account is provided with up to 15GB of storage,' but around January-February 2026 , it says, 'Each Google account has 15GB of storage available,' and the word 'up to' was not used.
Because Google accounts can be created without a phone number, users can own multiple accounts and secure large amounts of storage space. This test is thought to be aimed at restricting such practices.
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