Trending Now - Google Cuts Free Gmail Storage From 15GB to 5GB With Phone Link

WHO:

[09:07 AM ET] - Android Authority - Google is the organization implementing the new storage policy.

WHAT:

[09:07 AM ET] - Android Authority - Google is testing a new storage policy that limits free storage to 5GB for new accounts unless a phone number is linked.

[09:07 AM ET] - 9to5Google - Users are notified during the setup process that they will receive only 5GB of free storage unless they link a phone number to their account.

[09:07 AM ET] - 9to5Google - Google’s notice states: "Your account includes 5 GB of storage. Now get even more storage space with your phone number for Google Photos, Drive, and Gmail. Unlock 15 GB storage at no cost by using your phone number."

WHERE:

[09:07 AM ET] - Android Authority - The new storage policy is being tested in select regions.

WHEN:

[09:07 AM ET] - Android Authority - The change in storage policy was confirmed by Google on May 15, 2026.

[09:07 AM ET] - 9to5Google - The updated language regarding storage policy first appeared in the Internet Archive on March 18, 2026.

WHY:

[09:07 AM ET] - Android Authority - Google states that the new policy aims to provide a high-quality storage service while encouraging users to improve their account security and data recovery.

HOW:

[09:07 AM ET] - 9to5Google - Users are required to link a phone number during the account setup process to access the full 15GB of storage.

[09:07 AM ET] - 9to5Google - Google positions the phone number linking as a policy to ensure that the 15GB storage pool is added "once per person."

(UPDATED May 15, 2026 09:52 UTC)

Google is testing a new storage policy that limits free storage to 5GB for new accounts unless users link a phone number during the setup process. Users will be notified that they can unlock 15GB of storage at no cost by providing their phone number, which Google says is intended to enhance account security and data recovery. This new policy is currently being tested in select regions and was confirmed by Google on May 15, 2026.