Google asks users for phone numbers in new prompt
▼ Summary
– Google is testing a storage reduction from 15GB to 5GB for new accounts in select regions unless a phone number is provided.
– The test is regional and not applied to all new users; some still receive the full 15GB without a phone number requirement.
– A Google spokesperson stated the test aims to ensure high-quality storage service and encourage account security and data recovery.
– The change could help curb users creating multiple accounts for extra storage, according to a Reddit discussion.
– Existing users are unaffected, but the reduction may push privacy-conscious users to consider alternative email services.
Google is quietly testing a storage reduction for new accounts unless users provide a phone number, signaling a potential shift in how the company manages its free storage tiers. Under the trial, the standard 15 GB of free storage would shrink to just 5 GB if a user declines to share their digits.
The experiment does not affect all new signups. When we created a fresh Gmail account today, we received the full 15 GB without being forced to supply a phone number, though the system did request one for an activation code. The test is also limited to specific regions and, the company stresses, remains just that,a test. Still, it raises questions about whether tech giants are gradually demanding more personal data in exchange for “free” services. In many ways, that future is already here.
A Google spokesperson explained to The Register: “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.”
On Reddit, speculation ran rampant about what Google might do with the collected phone numbers, with some users fearing commercial exploitation. Based on a screenshot of the prompt, the move appears aimed at curbing users who create multiple accounts to amass more storage.
Fifteen gigabytes may not stretch far in an era of ever-larger media files, but dropping to 5 GB would bring Google in line with Apple’s free iCloud offering. Microsoft gives Outlook.com users 15 GB, while Proton Mail’s free tier starts at 1 GB (initially 500 MB until a setup checklist is completed). If this test becomes permanent, it could mark another step down a worrying path: more free storage, but only if you surrender more personal data.
For privacy-conscious users, the message may be clear. If you are uneasy about handing over your phone number for commercial or security purposes, Gmail’s convenience might no longer outweigh the cost. A reduction to 5 GB for new users,existing accounts remain unaffected,could be the push some need to explore alternative email providers.
(Source: Theregister.com)
