Google began testing a new storage limit for new Gmail accounts, offering only 5GB of free storage instead of the usual 15GB, in select regions as of May 15, 2026 [1, 2]. According to a Google spokesperson, "newly registered accounts initially get 5GB free storage, covering Gmail, Drive, and Photos. By linking and verifying a phone number, users can obtain the full 15GB." [2]
The new policy mainly affects new accounts created without phone verification. Most accounts on Android and elsewhere already require a phone number, but exceptions exist—such as devices without SIM cards—where the verification can be skipped, triggering the 5GB limit [3, 4, 5, 6]. Google says the change aims to "maintain high-quality storage services while encouraging users to improve account security and data recovery capabilities," and to limit abuse by multiple fake accounts exploiting free storage [1, 2, 7]. A spokesperson added, "This initiative ensures each user can only get the 15GB benefit once and helps prevent abuse by malicious bots creating numerous accounts." [7]
Google updated its support pages to reflect the conditional policy, changing phrasing from "15GB free storage per account" to "up to 15GB free storage" [1, 3, 4, 5, 2, 6]. The test is concentrated mostly in African countries but includes other unspecified regions as well [2, 8, 9, 10, 7, 11, 6]. Importantly, existing Gmail users retain their full 15GB of storage and are not affected by this test [2, 8, 9, 10, 7, 11, 6].
Some surveys noted 44% of users would prefer the full 15GB but dislike sharing their phone number, highlighting a potential friction point [2]. Google has not announced wider rollout plans or a permanent change yet.
The company confirmed the test to Android Authority on May 15 and said it remains limited to select locations for now [1, 12, 3, 2, 8, 11].
