Google floats reduced initial 5GB free cloud storage limit, users claim — 15GB to require extra security measures, company confirms it is 'testing a new storage policy for new accounts'

Google is testing a new storage policy that limits new users to 5GB of free cloud storage instead of the previous 15GB. Users will need to link and verify a phone number to access the full 15GB. The change is not reflected on Google's support page, but the company confirmed the test to Android Authority. This move may help Google combat fake accounts and spam abuse, as verified phone numbers can prevent users from creating multiple accounts for extra storage. Additionally, this change could push more users towards paid Google One cloud storage plans.