Google's New Storage Policy: 5GB Free Without a Phone Number

In a quiet shift, Google has altered the way free cloud storage is allocated to new users. The longstanding offer of 15 GB of complimentary space now comes with a catch: a phone number is required to unlock the full amount. This change, which impacts Gmail, Drive, and Photos, has sparked discussions among users. Below, we answer key questions about this policy update.

What exactly changed with Google's free storage?

Previously, anyone signing up for a Google account automatically received 15 GB of free online storage across Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Photos. Now, that 15 GB offer is only available if you provide a phone number during registration. New users who skip the phone number step receive just 5 GB of storage. The change was first noticed by users on Reddit and applies solely to new accounts—existing users retain their original 15 GB allocation without needing to add a phone number.

Why does Google want my phone number for the full 15 GB?

Google uses phone numbers primarily for account verification. When you provide a phone number, Google can verify that you are a real person and not a bot or an anonymous user. This verification removes the anonymity label from your account, granting you the full 15 GB of storage. It’s a security measure to reduce spam and abuse. If you choose not to verify at signup, you start with only 5 GB, but you can add your phone number later to upgrade.

Can I increase my storage from 5 GB to 15 GB after signing up?

Yes. According to reports, Google allows you to complete the phone number verification at a later time. You can sign up without a phone number, get 5 GB, and then go into your account settings to add and verify a phone number. Once verified, your storage limit should increase to 15 GB. This flexibility means you don’t have to decide immediately, but the full 15 GB remains tied to providing a phone number.

Does this policy affect existing Google account holders?

No. The new requirement for a phone number to get 15 GB of free storage is only for new accounts. Existing users who already have the 15 GB allocation keep that amount unchanged. There is no need for current users to take any action. However, if you ever create a secondary Google account, that new account will be subject to the updated policy.

What are my options if I don't want to give my phone number but need more than 5 GB?

If you prefer not to share your phone number, you can still get more storage by subscribing to Google One. Paid plans start at $19.99 per year for 100 GB, and go up to $99.99 per year for 2 TB. First-year discounts are often available. Google One also includes additional benefits like family sharing and Google Workspace features. This is the only way to increase storage without submitting a phone number to unlock the free 15 GB tier.

Has Google officially announced this storage change?

Google has not issued a formal statement or public announcement about the change. However, the company’s support page now reads: “Your Google Account comes with up to 15 GB of cloud storage at no charge.” Previously, the same page said “...comes with 15 GB...”—without the word “up to.” According to 9to5Google, the wording was stealthily updated in March 2026, as verified via the Wayback Machine. The shift was effectively communicated by updating the support documentation rather than making a public announcement.

How did users find out about this policy change?

The change came to light when new sign-ups reported seeing only 5 GB of free storage after choosing not to enter a phone number. Discussions on Reddit and other forums highlighted the discrepancy. Tech blogs like GoogleWatchBlog and 9to5Google investigated and confirmed the update by comparing archived versions of Google’s support page. The discovery emphasizes how easily policy changes can go unnoticed when companies quietly tweak official documentation rather than broadcasting the news.