Google is set to implement a significant change in how it manages Android device backups, which will soon count against the 15GB of free cloud storage provided to every Google Account. This adjustment means that data like SMS messages, call history, device settings, and app data—previously exempt from storage limits—will now contribute to the overall storage usage shared across Google Drive, Gmail, and Google Photos.
The change is anticipated to take effect in the coming weeks, with Google estimating that the average Android backup will consume approximately 40MB of storage. This shift could prompt users who are nearing their storage capacity to either free up space or consider upgrading to a Google One subscription. If users exceed their storage limit, automatic device backups will be paused until more space becomes available.
In addition to the storage policy update, Google is reportedly working on enhancing backup controls, providing users with the ability to select which apps and types of data they wish to back up. This development aims to offer more flexibility, potentially reducing the size of backups and allowing users to better manage their cloud storage allocation.
These changes underscore Google’s ongoing efforts to optimize storage solutions for its users while also encouraging more active management of cloud resources. As users adapt to the new policy, the introduction of detailed backup controls is expected to alleviate some of the challenges associated with managing limited cloud storage space.