💾Google Adds 15GB Free Storage Across Services
Your free storage just got a boost — but at what cost?
TL;DR
Google bumped up the free cloud storage across Gmail, Drive, and more to 15GB. But Android settings and third-party backups now count towards this limit.
Google just increased its free cloud storage allocation to 15GB per account, spanning services like Gmail, Drive, Sheets, Docs, Slides, and Gemini. This move affects users who rely on Google's ecosystem for file management and backup needs. However, Android device settings, WhatsApp backups, and other third-party app data now count towards this limit, potentially squeezing out existing files and increasing storage utilization by 40MB per user. Users can manage their space by disabling unnecessary app backups or upgrading to a Google One subscription if they need more room.
Key Points
Google allocates 15GB of free cloud storage, shared across Gmail, Drive, Sheets, Docs, Slides, Gemini, and more.
Android device settings and WhatsApp backups are included in the new 15GB allocation, increasing total storage usage by 40MB per user.
Users can disable app backups to save space or upgrade to Google One for additional storage options starting at $1.99/month.
Disabling media backups in apps like Google Photos and WhatsApp reduces cloud storage utilization significantly.
Some Android OEMs, such as OnePlus, offer on-device backup options that don't count towards the 15GB limit.
Why It Matters
If you're using Gmail or Drive for file management, this change could impact how much space you have left. For instance, WhatsApp backups now count towards your free storage, potentially reducing available space by up to 40MB per user. Disabling media and app backups can help reclaim some of that lost space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does this matter?
If you're using Gmail or Drive for file management, this change could impact how much space you have left. For instance, WhatsApp backups now count towards your free storage, potentially reducing available space by up to 40MB per user. Disabling media and app backups can help reclaim some of that lost space.
What happened?
Google bumped up the free cloud storage across Gmail, Drive, and more to 15GB. But Android settings and third-party backups now count towards this limit.
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