Overview
- Multiple tech outlets on Thursday reported signup screens that grant only 5GB unless a phone number is linked.
- Google’s prompt tells new users they can unlock 15GB at no cost by adding a number that it uses to ensure the bonus is applied only once per person.
- Google’s help text was revised in March 2026 from saying every account comes with 15GB to saying users get up to 15GB, a change verified in the Internet Archive.
- Reports describe a limited rollout that appears in specific regions and signup flows, with many other signups already requiring phone verification and existing accounts unchanged.
- Coverage cites Google’s anti‑abuse aim and notes likely cost and data benefits, which could reduce throwaway accounts and nudge some newcomers toward paid storage.