Review Google Photos and WhatsApp Backup Storage

Correction, October 18, 2026: The earlier version overstated default backup behavior and the savings from changing settings. Changing future backups and removing files already stored are separate actions.

Start with Google's storage breakdown to see which services are using your account space. Then review the backups you need. A lower storage total is little help if you delete your only recovery copy.

Choose the photo folders you want to back up

Google Photos' instructions explain how to select device folders for backup. Check your selection instead of assuming every Android phone uses the same defaults.

If you stop backing up a folder, review the files already uploaded separately. Keep an independent copy of important photos before deleting anything. Check whether the action affects the device copy, the cloud copy, or both.

Review WhatsApp's settings

Google's storage guidance says Android WhatsApp backups count toward Google Account storage. It explains how to change WhatsApp's backup settings before removing a backup.

Deleting a WhatsApp backup can permanently remove the copy needed to restore your chats after reinstalling the app or changing phones. Check what your next backup will contain, including whether you want to include videos.

Confirm what you can recover

Before deleting a backup, record where the important files remain and how you would restore them after losing your phone. Review the next backup after changing settings so you know what is being saved.