Google may cut the free storage for new Gmail accounts from 15GB to 5GB, according to a report from Android Authority. Those who want a storage upgrade from those 5GB accounts would need to provide a phone number to Google to unlock the extra gigabytes.
A Google representative confirmed that it’s trying out new account options.
“We’re testing a new storage policy for new accounts created in select regions that will help us continue to provide a high-quality storage service to our users, while encouraging users to improve their account security and data recovery,” the representative said in a statement to CNET.
It’s unclear if the regions where this is being tested include the US. Android Authority reported that accounts with only 5GB of storage were primarily in African countries.
Google has been expanding the tiers of paid accounts it offers, combining Gemini AI features into bundles. It recently added three new tiers focused on AI features, starting at $8 a month with 200GB of storage included.