Google to Limit New Accounts to 5GB Free Storage Without Phone Verification

Google has announced a significant change to its free storage policy for new accounts. Beginning in 2024, users creating new Google accounts will receive just 5GB of free storage, a sharp reduction from the previous 15GB allocation. This new limit applies unless users link and verify a phone number with their account.

What’s Changing for New Google Accounts?

Under the updated policy, new Google accounts will default to 5GB of free storage starting in 2024. Previously, all new accounts received 15GB of free storage, regardless of whether a phone number was added. The change aims to enhance security and reduce abuse of free storage tiers.

To qualify for the original 15GB storage limit, new users must now verify a phone number linked to their Google account. This step is intended to curb the creation of fake or disposable accounts that previously exploited the generous free storage offering.

Impact on Existing Users

Google has clarified that existing accounts will not be affected by this policy change. Users who already have a Google account with 15GB of storage will continue to retain their current allocation. The update applies exclusively to new accounts created after the policy takes effect in 2024.

Why Is Google Making This Change?

Google’s decision to reduce free storage for new accounts reflects broader efforts to combat fraud and misuse of its services. By requiring phone number verification, the company aims to:

• Reduce the creation of fake or spam accounts.
• Improve the security of user data and storage.
• Ensure fair access to free storage for legitimate users.

"This change helps us maintain a secure and reliable service for all users while preventing abuse of our free storage offerings." — Google spokesperson

What Should New Users Do?

New users looking to secure the full 15GB of free storage should:

• Create their Google account in 2024 or later.
• Link and verify a phone number to their account.

Users who do not verify a phone number will be limited to 5GB of storage. Google has not yet announced whether this policy will expand to existing accounts in the future.