Google trials 5GB storage cap for new Gmail sign-ups without phone numbers

Google is testing a new Gmail signup policy in some regions that limits no-phone-number accounts to 5GB of free storage.

New users who verify with a phone number can still get the standard 15GB free tier.

The test was first spotted on Reddit and confirmed by Google to Android Authority.

Complaints have mainly come from African countries, and it is unclear whether the change will expand more widely.

The move could affect privacy, account security, and Google’s efforts to curb abuse of free storage.