Google Photos Is Testing “Recover Storage” Feature

The storage space problem on Google Photos has indeed been a concern for many users. Google Photos offered unlimited free storage for high-quality photos and videos initially, however, this changed in June 2021 when Google announced a 15GB Google Account storage limit. This policy change urged many users to manage their storage more carefully or consider alternative options. There is a good piece of news for all Android users. The upcoming Google Photos app update for Android will offer a solution to this longstanding concern about storage space.

Android users can store images in original quality or a compressed ‘storage saver’ format. It allows them to create more space. However, this option only applies to newly added files. Reports claim that the upcoming version 6.78 of Google Photos will offer a hidden feature called ‘Recover storage.‘ Once manually enabled, the feature will allow users to compress existing photos and videos stored in the app’s cloud storage. It will be a significant development indeed. Previously, such compression could only be accomplished via the web version of Google Photos.

A New Google Photos Feature Is On Its Way

Reports claim that this new feature will be present in the Manage storage menu, categorized under the ‘Recover storage’ header. The option seems as ‘Convert photos to Storage saver,’ escorted by a brief description explaining its purpose: to free up storage by switching existing original quality files to the storage saver format. In addition to that, the app explains that compressing files within Google Photos will not affect items stored or added elsewhere in Google’s ecosystem, for instance, Gmail or Drive. However, users are warned that this compression process is irreversible. Moreover, the process may take several days, depending on the quantity and size of files.

This potential update aims to address a common concern among Google Photos users by providing a way to recycle storage space through the compression of existing files. It will undoubtedly streamline the user experience and will be a welcoming feature. What do you think? This feature is currently unavailable to users. However, it is anticipated to roll out in future updates.

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