Google Changes Backup Policies for Android Users

On July 7, 2026, Google announced that all data from Android backups will now count against the storage space in users' Google accounts. This change particularly affects new Android users, while existing users will be gradually transitioned over the coming months. Previously, only content in Google Photos and images and videos in MMS backups were subject to this regulation. With the new policy, the storage space used by Android backups will now also be included in the quota.

According to Google, the average additional storage requirement for Android backups will be about 40 megabytes. In addition to this change, Google is introducing new settings that give users more control over their backups. Users will now be able to decide which app data should be backed up and which should not. This feature is intended to allow users to selectively manage which information is included in the backup. Another planned step is the ability 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 coming months and will help users manage their storage space more efficiently. The changes may have less impact on users who rely on alternative backup methods. Nevertheless, the new regulation could pose a challenge for many Android users, as they may be forced to expand their storage space or rethink their backup strategies. Google has also announced that an upgrade to 100 GB in Google One will be available for €1.99 per month. For 200 GB, the cost will be €2.99, and for 2 TB, it will be €9.99 per month.

These upgrades also include access to new features in Google Gemini. The new backup policies and storage changes could significantly influence how users back up their data. However, Google has emphasized that the impact of these changes is expected to be limited. The introduction of the new backup features and adjustments to the storage policies are part of Google's ongoing efforts to enhance user experience while ensuring data security. The full implementation of the new backup options and storage regulations is expected in the coming months, with Google already working on the rollout.