Google reveals why it's offering only 5GB free storage instead of 15GB with some new Gmail accounts

We recently saw reports from users claiming that Google is offering only 5GB of free storage with a new Gmail account, instead of 15GB, but if they added their phone number to the new account, Google would "unlock" 15GB storage at no cost. Google has revealed the reason behind that.

In a statement to Android Authority, a Google spokesperson said the company is testing this change to help it continue to provide a "high-quality storage service" to its users.

New Gmail account with 5GB storage

"We’re testing a new storage policy for new accounts created in select regions that will help us continue to provide a high-quality storage service to our users, while encouraging users to improve their account security and data recovery," said Google.

Google didn't reveal the name of the regions where it's testing this change.

As for existing accounts, we believe that as long as users have a phone number added to their Google account, they will continue to enjoy 15GB of free storage, shared across Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Photos. That's because Google has updated its support page, which now says "Each Google Account includes up to 15 GB of storage" instead of "includes 15 GB of storage."