In a significant shift, Google is set to alter the way Android device backups utilize cloud storage by counting them against the 15GB of free storage provided with every Google Account. Presently, these backups, which include SMS messages, call history, device settings, and app data, do not contribute to the shared storage limit across Google Drive, Gmail, and Google Photos. The upcoming change will integrate these backups into the overall storage cap.
This adjustment is anticipated to roll out in the coming weeks. On average, an Android backup is expected to increase storage usage by approximately 40MB. Users nearing or exceeding their storage limits might find themselves needing to clear out some space or consider upgrading to a Google One subscription to accommodate the extra data. If an account runs out of available space, automatic device backups will be paused until more storage is freed up.
In tandem with this storage policy update, Google is reportedly working on enhancing backup controls. These new features will enable users to select specific apps and types of data they wish to back up, providing greater flexibility and control over their cloud storage management. This development aims to assist users in reducing the size of their backups, thereby optimizing their storage usage.
This strategic move by Google reflects an ongoing trend of tech companies revising their cloud storage offerings. By incorporating Android backups into the free storage quota, Google is aligning its policies more closely with its other services, urging users to be more mindful of their storage consumption and potentially driving more subscriptions to its paid Google One service.