Google has started testing a major change to its free storage policy for new Gmail accounts. New users in some regions are now getting only 5GB of free storage instead of the usual 15GB, unless they add and verify a phone number.

The tech giant confirmed it is running a limited test in select countries, including parts of Africa. The aim, according to Google, is to improve account security, reduce spam and fake accounts, and maintain service quality.

What Has Changed?

• New Gmail accounts created during the test period now start with 5GB shared storage (across Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Photos).
•  
• Users can unlock the full 15GB by linking a phone number to the account.
•  
• Existing accounts are not affected and will continue to enjoy the full 15GB free storage.
•  

This marks the end of the long-standing generous 15GB free offer that Gmail has been known for since its early days. Many Nigerians and Africans who create multiple Gmail accounts for business, personal use, or backups will be directly impacted.

Why Google is Making This Move

Google says the change will help fight abuse of its services. In recent years, the company has seen a rise in fake accounts used for spam and scams. Requiring phone verification for full storage is seen as a way to make accounts more secure and easier to recover if something goes wrong.

What This Means for Users

• People who don’t want to share their phone number will have to manage with just 5GB or upgrade to a paid Google One plan for more space.
•  
• Many users in Nigeria already struggle with the 15GB limit because of large email attachments, Drive files, and Google Photos backups. The new 5GB cap will make it even tighter.
•  

Google has not yet announced when or if this test will become permanent across all countries. For now, it remains a limited rollout.

If you are planning to create a new Gmail account soon, be prepared for the possible 5GB starting limit. For those already using Gmail, now may be a good time to check your storage and delete unnecessary files before any wider changes are introduced.