Google Narrows Free Cloud Storage: Link Phone for 15GB!

Google is implementing a new policy that restricts free cloud storage for some newly created accounts. To access the standard 15GB of free storage, users in select regions are now required to link a phone number. Those who do not link a number will be limited to a mere 5GB of storage.

This change, confirmed by Google, aims to improve account security and data recovery, while also preventing the creation of multiple accounts by single individuals. The alteration was initially noted by a Reddit user who observed the requirement while setting up a new Gmail account.

While Google has not explicitly stated all affected regions, reports suggest that some users in Africa have encountered this requirement. Attempts to create new accounts in India also indicated the necessity of linking a phone number to complete the setup. This update subtly modifies Google's support page language regarding storage provision.