Google has confirmed it is testing a Gmail storage limit that gives some new Google Account users 5GB of free cloud storage unless they add a phone number.
The test applies only to new accounts in select regions, according to Android Authority and TechRadar. Existing users keep their current storage allocation under the pilot policy.
Google’s support page says each Google Account includes up to 15GB of storage shared across Gmail, Google Drive and Google Photos. The new test changes how some new users access that full quota.
Under the trial, new users who do not verify a phone number receive 5GB by default. Users can unlock up to 15GB after linking a phone number to their account, according to reports on the policy test.
Google told Android Authority it is testing a new storage policy for accounts created in select regions. The company linked the move to account security, storage quality and data recovery, the outlet reported.
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The change has drawn criticism from users who view phone verification as a privacy trade-off. TechRadar reported that the test does not end Google’s 15GB free storage policy for all Gmail, Google Drive and Google Photos users.
The test comes as Google continues to promote its paid storage plans, Google One, for users who need more space across its cloud services. Google’s support page says users can buy a Google One membership where available.
