# Samsung Gallery Now Syncs with Google Photos

Seamless photo and video transfer replaces OneDrive integration

- **Source:** [CNET](https://brifing.si/source/ce507de7-7f24-4ff4-ab6d-7635abcc095a)
- **Published:** 2026-09-18
- **Original article:** <https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/samsung-phone-users-can-now-sync-photos-and-video-to-google/>
- **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/788b7ea5-1ae8-4b44-afd8-a38cbc11e0f7

## Cloud storage shift

Samsung is replacing its native OneDrive integration with Google Photos sync capability, effective September 30. The transition affects Gallery app users across compatible devices running Android 13 or newer. This strategic partnership marks Google's deepening integration with Android OEM ecosystems while offering Samsung users expanded cloud options beyond Microsoft's solution.

## Technical requirements

The feature requires a personal Google account and specific device specifications. Users must check their Android version under Settings > About phone > Software information to confirm compatibility. Google Workspace accounts and child-supervised accounts remain excluded from this functionality. The sync option appears as a new setting within the Gallery app's hamburger menu.

## Content coverage

The sync includes photos, videos, albums, and device folders like downloads or screenshots, along with metadata such as timestamps and location data. However, synced items won't appear in Google Photos features like memories, highlights, or live albums unless users perform a separate backup through Google Photos, creating a distinction between sync and backup functions.

## Storage implications

While optional, the sync feature addresses growing storage demands on Samsung devices. Without cloud syncing, media files rapidly consume local storage. The integration allows users to access content across Samsung Gallery, Google Photos app, and photos.google.com, though deletions or edits in either platform propagate universally across all connected services.

## User control

Users maintain full control over the sync relationship, able to disable it anytime while retaining previously synced content in their Google accounts. The permission-based setup requires explicit user authorization through the Gallery settings menu. This opt-in approach contrasts with some automatic cloud backup solutions common in mobile ecosystems.

## Platform limitations

The feature rollout varies by account type, device model, and region, reflecting typical staged deployments in mobile ecosystems. Enterprise users through Google Workspace remain excluded, maintaining separation between personal and professional cloud storage solutions. The implementation focuses squarely on consumer rather than business use cases.

## Industry context

This partnership reflects the ongoing battle for cloud storage dominance among tech giants. While Samsung maintains its own ecosystem, strategic integrations with Google strengthen Android's unified experience. The move comes as consumers increasingly demand seamless cross-platform media management without vendor lock-in constraints.

## Strategic implications

The Samsung-Google collaboration signals shifting alliances in mobile cloud services. By replacing Microsoft's solution, Google gains deeper access to Samsung's massive user base while Samsung offloads storage infrastructure demands. This symbiotic relationship may influence future Android feature development and third-party service integrations.

## Sources covering this story

- https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/samsung-phone-users-can-now-sync-photos-and-video-to-google/ — 

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_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._