Google is set to modify the way Android device backups are stored by incorporating them into the free cloud storage allocation provided with every Google Account. Currently, these backups, which include SMS messages, call history, device settings, and app data, do not count towards the 15GB of complimentary storage shared across Google Drive, Gmail, and Google Photos. However, with the forthcoming update, these backups will now be part of this overall storage limit.
This new policy is anticipated to be implemented in the coming weeks. According to Google, the typical Android backup will add approximately 40MB to a user’s storage consumption. For those nearing or exceeding their storage capacity, this may necessitate either freeing up space or opting for a Google One subscription. If an account exhausts its available storage, automatic device backups will be temporarily halted until more space is made available.
In addition to the storage policy change, Google is reportedly working on enhancing backup controls to offer users the ability to decide which apps and data types are backed up. This increased flexibility aims to help users manage backup sizes more effectively and exercise greater control over their cloud storage.
The planned changes reflect Google’s ongoing efforts to optimize cloud storage management for its users, ensuring that they can make the most out of their available space while maintaining essential data protection through backups. Users are encouraged to monitor their storage usage closely and consider the most suitable options for expanding their storage to accommodate these updates.