Google has implemented a significant change to its free storage policy for new accounts, reducing the initial free storage from 15GB to 5GB unless users link a verified phone number. This adjustment is part of Google's effort to ensure that storage is allocated only once per individual. The change was first noted in a Reddit thread and is reflected in updated language on Google's support page, which now states 'up to 15GB' instead of a guaranteed 15GB. While the new policy may not affect most users—who typically must link a phone number when creating an account—there are exceptions, such as signing up on an Android device without a SIM card. It remains uncertain whether this is a permanent policy change or simply an A/B test, as some users report still receiving the full 15GB without linking a number. Google has been contacted for further clarification on this matter.