# Android Backup Data Now Counts Against Google Account Storage Limit Google starts including Android backups in storage quota calculations. - **Source:** [Android](https://brifing.si/source/0ee45b9b-ec42-4a27-8ef0-9af1529ca8e2) - **Published:** 2026-07-20 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/6d0012c0-8470-46d3-ba35-9b046b984c7d ## Storage Policy Change Google announced that backup data from Android devices will now count against users' free 15GB storage limit. This change covers app data, SMS, settings alongside photos and documents. Users will need to manage their storage space more carefully moving forward. ## Affected Data Types The new policy includes device settings, app data, call history, contacts and MMS/SMS messages. Photos uploaded in 'High Quality' through Google Photos remain exempt. Users can track storage usage via Google One app to see which data consumes their quota. ## User Reactions On community platforms, many users express concerns, especially for those with limited storage. Some are exploring alternative backup solutions. Experts predict potential increase in cloud storage subscriptions as users seek additional capacity. ## Google's Justification The company stated this decision aims to improve user experience and ensure sustainable storage infrastructure. While Google Drive has counted backups since 2018, Android backups were previously exempt. The new policy establishes consistency across services. ## Management Tips Users can analyze storage via Google One app to delete unnecessary files. They may reduce backup frequency or exclude non-critical data. Local backup solutions or third-party cloud services could serve as alternatives for some users. ## Future Implications This change will prompt users to reevaluate cloud storage habits. Paid Google storage plans may see increased adoption. Industry watchers are curious whether other cloud providers will implement similar policies in the near future. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.reddit.com/r/Android/comments/1v167lh/9to5google_all_android_backup_data_now_counts/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._