Google Ends Free Android Backup: What You Need to Know
Google has recently announced a significant change regarding the backup of Android devices. As reported by various sources, including Engadget, all data from Android backups will now count towards the storage quota of the user’s Google Account. Previously, only content in Google Photos, along with images and videos stored in MMS backups, impacted users’ storage limits.
New Policy Timeline
This change will take effect for new Android users starting July 7, 2026. For existing users, the rollout will occur gradually over the coming months. This transition is poised to alter how users engage with their Google accounts, necessitating a closer look at what this means for data management and storage.
Expected Impact on Storage
According to Google, the ramifications of this new policy will likely be minimal in terms of additional storage used. On average, Android backups will require about 40 megabytes of extra space. To help users better manage their data, new settings will be introduced, granting more control over what is backed up.
This is particularly important for users who have limited storage capacity. With the new features, Android users will have the option to select which app data to back up, allowing them to conserve space if needed.
New Backup Features
In addition to these adjustments, Google is rolling out several new backup functionalities. Users will soon be able to exclude device settings, call history, SMS, and MMS messages from the backup process. This customization aims to provide users with greater flexibility and control over their data.
Changes to Free Storage Limits
Adding to the complexity, Google reduced the free storage limit for new accounts from 15 gigabytes to just 5 gigabytes in May. This change will further impact new users unless they link a phone number to their accounts. Consequently, users may find themselves quickly reaching their storage limits, particularly if they heavily use the backup feature.
Considering Upgrade Options
With the adjustments to storage limits, users already utilizing Google’s cloud services could find their storage needs becoming more urgent. Google offers various upgrade options through Google One, which include:
- 100 GB for €1.99 per month
- 200 GB for €2.99 per month
- 2 TB for €9.99 per month
These plans include access to “new and powerful features” in Google Gemini, making them an attractive option for users needing additional storage.
Conclusion: Planning Ahead
As these changes unfold, it is crucial for Android users to evaluate their storage needs and consider how much data they currently have in the cloud. While many may not notice significant adjustments immediately, the new backup practices may require proactive management of their Google accounts to avoid unexpected storage issues.
By being aware of these developments and adjusting backup preferences accordingly, users can ensure a smoother transition and maintain control over their valuable data.
This article was originally published on our sister publication M3 and has been translated and localized from Swedish.
