Google has started to limit the amount of free cloud storage — some new Gmail users have access to 5 GB instead of 15 GB, reports Android Authority. The company informed the publication that they are testing a new data storage policy.
In Testing Mode
Recently, Reddit users reported that Google offers only 5 GB of free storage for new Gmail accounts. According to a screenshot posted on Reddit by user sungusungu, the company provides a smaller amount of free storage when creating a new Gmail account if a phone number is not provided.
"We are testing a new data storage policy for new accounts created in certain regions, which will help us continue to provide users with high-quality data storage services and encourage them to enhance the security of their accounts and data recovery options," a Google representative told Android Authority.
Experiments on Africans
They did not specify which regions are affected. User reports mainly came from African countries, the publication states.
Android Authority links the changes to Google's attempt to combat the creation of disposable accounts for unlimited storage.
Google storage is used by Google Drive, Gmail, Google Photos, and WhatsApp backups. When it runs out of space, users will not be able to create files on Drive and upload them, send and receive emails in Gmail, or back up photos and videos to Google Photos.
For old accounts, all 15 GB are available.
