Google launches affordable storage options for Photos, Drive, and Gmail

In September 2023, Google began rolling out a new subscription option called Google One Lite, specifically targeting users in India. This plan offers 30GB of cloud storage for a monthly fee of ₹59 (around $0.70), which is considerably lower than the existing 100GB Basic plan. Users can take advantage of a one-month free trial to assess the service before committing to a subscription. However, unlike other Google One tiers, this Lite option does not allow for sharing storage with family or friends. The introduction of Google One Lite appears to be a strategic move to cater to budget-conscious consumers who may find the existing plans too expensive. While the storage capacity of 30GB is modest, it is still an improvement over the free 15GB that users receive upon signing up. Comparatively, Apple’s iCloud+ offers 50GB for $0.89 per month, which includes family sharing, making it a more attractive option for some users. Despite the appealing price point, the limited storage may not meet the needs of all users, and the lack of sharing capabilities could deter potential subscribers. As of now, the Google One Lite tier is only available to a select group of users in India, and it remains unclear whether Google plans to expand this offering to other regions. If the trial proves successful, there may be potential for broader rollout, but many users are likely to continue opting for the existing 100GB plan as the most affordable paid option. The introduction of this tier reflects Google's ongoing efforts to adapt its services to meet diverse consumer needs in a competitive market.