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Google Says All Android Backups Now Count Toward Account Storage

The change could push some users to buy paid Google One plans to get more storage.

Overview

  • On July 7 Google changed its policy so every Android backup data type — including SMS, call history, device settings and app data — is counted against a user’s shared Google Account storage.
  • Google has added granular on/off toggles in Android backup settings for SMS & MMS, call history, device settings and individual apps so users can choose what is backed up.
  • The company says the average added backup size is about 40 MB, meaning most users should see only a small increase in used storage.
  • The new rule applies immediately to new Android backup users and will be rolled out to existing accounts gradually over the coming months.
  • This update follows earlier tests that tightened free storage limits and could, in aggregate, increase demand for paid Google One plans among users who need more space.