Google is reportedly testing a reduction in free cloud storage for some new Gmail users, lowering the limit from 15 GB to 5 GB.

According to a recent report by Android Authority, some newly created Gmail accounts were being offered only 5 GB of free cloud storage instead of the standard 15 GB historically provided across Google services including Gmail, Google Drive and Google Photos.

Google confirmed to Android Authority that it is experimenting with a new storage policy for selected regions, although the company did not specify which countries are involved in the trial. User reports cited in the publication were largely linked to African markets.

In a statement quoted in the report, Google said the test was intended to help maintain “a high-quality storage service” while also encouraging stronger account security and improved data recovery practices.

Existing Gmail users with 15 GB of storage are not expected to be affected by the experiment. On Google’s support page, the company now states that users receive “up to 15 GB” of free storage, replacing earlier language that more directly referenced a fixed 15 GB allocation.

It remains unclear whether the test will expand globally. Google has not announced any timeline for a wider rollout or confirmed whether the reduced storage limit will become permanent for future accounts.