Google is preparing a major change to Android backup storage accounting starting July 7, 2026. Under the new policy, all backup data from Android devices will count against a user’s Google account storage quota.
For many users, the shift may not feel dramatic at first, but it does make storage management more important. Those using free accounts, in particular, may want to pay closer attention to what is being saved and what can be removed.
All backup data will count toward the quota
Until now, only certain categories of Android backup data have affected Google storage usage, such as media in Google Photos and photos or videos sent through MMS. The rest did not always reduce the available space in the same way.
That will change under the new system. Google says the update will roll out gradually to all users, with new users moving to the revised storage model right away and existing users being transitioned over time.
The average impact is expected to be small
Google estimates the average increase in storage use at around 40 MB. That means the policy is unlikely to fill most accounts quickly, but it still adds a reason to check backup settings more regularly.
If storage space starts to run low, users may need to delete older files or adjust their backup choices. The change is less about an immediate shortage and more about making storage use more visible and easier to manage.
Android backup settings will offer more control
Alongside the storage rule change, Google is also giving Android users more flexibility in Backup settings. Users will be able to choose which data and apps are included in the backup process.
That includes the option to skip certain items such as device settings, call history, SMS, or MMS. App data can also be controlled more selectively, depending on what a user wants to preserve.
The backup feature remains important because it helps protect valuable information and makes switching to a new phone easier. It also simplifies recovery after a reset, reducing the need to set everything up manually.
Backup changes at a glance
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Effective date | July 7, 2026 |
| Main change | All Android backups count toward Google storage quota |
| New users | Move to the new system immediately |
| Existing users | Transition gradually over time |
| Estimated added storage | Around 40 MB on average |
| Backup controls | Users can choose data and apps to include |
| Main purpose | Easier restoration and phone migration |
The update places more responsibility on users to keep their Google account storage in check. At the same time, the added flexibility in backup settings should make it easier to decide what truly needs to be preserved.