Google Changes Backup Policies for Android Users

On July 7, 2026, Google announced that Android users will now need to account for storage space in their Google accounts for their backups. This change affects all data created through Android backup, no longer limited to content in Google Photos and images and videos in MMS backups. The new policies are effective immediately for new users and will be gradually rolled out to existing users over the coming months. Google estimates that the impact of this change will be limited.

On average, Android backups will require about 40 megabytes of additional storage space. However, users who already have extensive data in Google Cloud may quickly reach their storage limits, especially if they do not utilize other backup methods. In addition to the new backup policies, Google is introducing further settings that give users more control over their backups. A new feature will allow users to decide which app data should be backed up. This feature is designed to help users save storage space by backing up only the data that is important to them.

Another planned step is the option to exclude device settings, call history, as well as SMS and MMS messages from the backup. These options are expected to be available in the near future, allowing users to customize their backup settings even further. The changes come at a time when many users rely on cloud services to back up their data. Google has also announced that there will be new and powerful features in Google Gemini that will be available under the new storage plans. These features may be of interest to users looking to manage their data more efficiently.

The new backup policies and associated changes could also impact the use of third-party backup solutions. Users who have relied on alternative backup methods may find themselves needing to rethink their strategies to meet the new requirements. Google has emphasized that the changes aim to give users more control over their data while improving the efficiency of data backup. However, the exact details regarding the gradual rollout of the new policies for existing users have not yet been released. The new backup policies for Android users will take effect on July 7, 2026.