Google has announced a significant change to its Android backup policy. Starting early next year, backups from multiple Android devices will count toward the same 15GB cloud storage limit. This applies to all users, including those with Google One subscriptions.
What is Changing?
Previously, backups for each device were stored separately and did not count toward the user's storage quota. Under the new policy, backups from all devices—including photos, videos, SMS, call history, contacts, and app data—will be combined and consume the shared storage pool. Google says this change will take effect in early 2026.
According to Google, the move aims to simplify storage management and align with user expectations. The company stated, “This change will help users better understand and manage their storage across devices.”
Impact on Users
For users with multiple Android devices, this could mean running out of storage sooner. The 15GB free tier includes space used by Google Drive, Gmail, and Google Photos (in high quality). Google One subscribers, who pay for additional storage, will also see their backups count toward their paid quota.
Google emphasized that users will receive notifications before the change takes effect. They can also manage backups manually by deleting old or unnecessary data. The company recommends checking storage usage in the Google Drive app or website.
How to Prepare
To avoid hitting the limit, users can:
- Review and delete old backups from devices no longer in use.
- Upgrade to a Google One plan for more storage.
- Use Google Photos’ “Storage saver” option to reduce photo and video sizes.
Google also noted that backups created before the policy change will remain subject to the old rules until the user modifies them or adds a new backup.
Reaction from Experts
Tech analysts have mixed reactions. Some say the change is fairer as it aligns with how other cloud services work. Others worry it may push users toward paid plans. “This is a clear move to monetize storage, but it also simplifies the user experience,” said a technology analyst.
Google has not announced any changes to the 15GB free tier or Google One pricing. The company says the update will roll out gradually across all Android devices starting in early 2026.
