Google Updates Free Storage Policy for New Accounts
For years, creating a new Google account came with a standard 15GB of complimentary cloud storage. This allocation was more than enough for most users handling emails, photos, and documents. However, the tech giant has now introduced a significant shift in its storage policy that affects how new accounts are set up.
Starting from this update, anyone opening a fresh Google account will only receive 5GB of free storage by default. This marks a notable reduction from the previous 15GB offering. Yet, there is a straightforward way to regain the full 15GB—though it now comes with an additional requirement.
How to Unlock the Full 15GB Storage
When you create a new Google account today, the initial screen will show a 5GB free storage limit instead of the familiar 15GB. To restore the original capacity, Google now asks users to link a mobile phone number to their account. This step involves entering a phone number and verifying it through a one-time password (OTP).
It is important to note that this policy change currently applies only to new accounts. Existing users continue to enjoy the original 15GB storage without any immediate need to link a phone number. Google quietly implemented this modification on its backend in March, and it has gradually become visible to new users over recent weeks.
Why Google Made This Change
Two primary reasons drive this policy shift. First, the cost of memory and storage hardware has been rising steadily. Providing large amounts of free storage to every new user has become increasingly expensive for the company. This economic factor plays a major role in the decision to reduce the default allocation.
Second, the change targets the persistent problem of fake accounts. Many users have been creating multiple accounts solely to accumulate more free storage space. By making mobile number verification a condition for the full 15GB, Google can better ensure that each real person receives only one allocation of the higher storage tier. This helps curb abuse of the free storage system.
Steps to Link Your Mobile Number
Verifying your phone number is a simple process. Follow these steps to increase your storage from 5GB to 15GB:
- Open any Google service on your phone or computer, such as Google Search, Gmail, or Chrome.
- Click on your profile picture or initial in the top-right corner.
- Navigate to the “Personal info” section from the menu.
- Look for the “Phone” option under the contact details.
- Enter your mobile number and complete the verification using the OTP sent to your phone.
Security Benefits Beyond Storage
Linking a mobile number offers advantages that go beyond simply unlocking more storage. A verified phone number serves as a critical security layer for your account. If you ever forget your password, this number allows you to recover access quickly and securely. It acts as a reliable backup method, reducing the risk of losing important data or being locked out of your account.
While the default storage reduction may seem like a drawback at first, the process to regain the full 15GB is straightforward. Existing users remain unaffected for now, and the change primarily impacts how new accounts are created. For those willing to verify their phone number, the familiar storage limit remains within easy reach.
