As we reported earlier, Google is changing the way Android device backups are counted against Google Account and the update can leave some users with less free cloud space than before. The company has started notifying users via email that, after a 45 day transition period, all Android backup data will count toward the 15GB of free storage shared across Gmail, Google Drive and Google Photos. Until now, certain backup items, such as device settings and app data, were treated differently. Once the policy takes effect, users who are close to their storage limit may find automatic backups stopping unless they free up space or purchase additional storage.
As per Google’s notification, Android backups will soon be fully included in a user’s Google Account storage quota. This means backup data such as SMS messages, call history, device settings, app preferences and other back up information will continue to the same 15GB storage pool used by Gmail, Google Photos and Google Drive.
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The company has also introduced more detailed backup control, allowing users to decide whether items like SMS, MMS, call history and device settings should be included in future backup. These options are available through the Google Backup section in Android settings.
Although this looks like a big deal, Google says the impact on most users will be small. A company spokesperson reportedly said the average increase in storage usage is expected to be around 40MB.
The users who are already nearing their storage limit should first review how their cloud storage is being used before deleting anything.
Google Photos is often the biggest contributor, especially if it contains large videos or duplicate media files. Google Drive may also include old documents, ZIP archives or unused backups that can be removed.
Gmail users can recover storage by deleting emails with large attachments and then emptying the Trash and Spam folders. It is also worth checking for backups of old Android devices that are no longer in use, while ensuring the backup of the current phone is retained.
Those who prefer not to pay for additional cloud storage can also reduce future storage growth by limiting unnecessary photo, video and media backups.
The new policy is expected to roll out after the 45-day notice period, giving Android users time to manage their storage before the changes take effect.