Since its first steps, Google has made its free its DNA. It's over. From now on, Google will charge the storage space allocated to its users, as long as it exceeds 15 gigabytes. Our columnist Axel de Tarlé tells us more.
That one, we had not seen it coming! For years, Google attracts us with its free services: emails, photos, documents ... Except that we have more and more. And the generosity of Google has limitations. Now, exceeding 15 gigabytes of storage now requires switching to a paid offer "Google One" for 1.99 euros per month. At the risk of no longer receiving your emails.
These are still pretty specious methods. At first we give you the "cam" for free, and once you're addicted, you've switched all your photos, and all your contacts ... You get paid. Wednesday night, Google France was not able to say how many Internet users had switched to the paid offer.
Small calculation: if 10% of Gmail users in the world, go into paid version, it will bring 2 billion euros to Google each year. Of course, one can understand that the storage space is not infinite. Moreover, Apple has been charging for its storage space for several years, from 99 cents per month.
The difference is that with Apple, we know that we operate in a closed and paid system. Google is different: its DNA is free. This is one of his arguments to protect himself against calls for dismantling.
Why criticize a monopoly when its service is free? The consumer is delighted.
Exactly, it's argument is falling. Google gives ammunition to his enemies ... This paid offer could be the grave of Google!