Google is changing how Android device backups are stored, moving them into the shared storage quota of a user’s Google Account within a 45-day window. According to an official email titled “New Android Backup Storage Policy & Controls,” this policy means that SMS messages, call history, device settings, and app settings will now count toward the storage limit previously reserved for Google Drive, Gmail, and Google Photos.
For users on the free 15GB Google Account tier, this shift may accelerate the depletion of available space. Google warned in the communication that if an account exceeds its storage limit, automatic backups of the device will pause until the user either frees up space or upgrades to a paid Google One storage plan.
To offset this change, Google is introducing granular controls that allow users to choose exactly which apps and data types are backed up.
New Storage Quotas for Android System Data
The primary shift in the policy is the transition of Android device backups from a separate, non-counting category to the primary Google Account storage pool. According to the “New Android Backup Storage Policy & Controls” email, the specific data types now counting toward the limit include:
- SMS messages
- Call history
- Device settings
- App settings
This change affects users on Android 9 and higher.
Granular Backup Controls for Android 9 and Above
To provide users with a way to manage their storage consumption, Google is rolling out new toggles within the Android backup settings. These controls allow for a per-app selection process, meaning users can opt out of backing up specific applications that they deem unnecessary or that occupy too much space.
According to the policy update, these granular toggles extend to the primary categories of system data. Users can now independently toggle the backup status for:
- Individual third-party and system apps
- SMS and MMS messages
- Call history
- General device settings
This level of control is designed to ensure that users only utilize their limited cloud storage for “what matters most,” according to the company’s communication.
Impact on Free vs. Paid Google One Accounts
The impact of this policy depends largely on the user’s current storage plan. Those utilizing the free 15GB limit provided by Google are the most likely to encounter backup pauses.
If a backup pauses due to a lack of space, the device will stop syncing new settings and messages to the cloud.
Do you have questions about your current backup settings? Share your thoughts or ask for clarification in the comments below.
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