The topic Google starts rolling out local Documents backup on Android, lets you turn off SMS… is currently the subject of lively discussion — readers and analysts are keeping a close eye on developments.
This is taking place in a dynamic environment: companies’ decisions and competitors’ reactions can quickly change the picture.
Following Android’s backup policy change this week, Google is rolling out new settings to control whether SMS, MMS, and RCS messages are backed up. Additionally, Android is beginning to introduce local Documents backup.
When you go to Settings > Accounts and backup > Google Backup > Other device data (on Pixel), there are new on/off toggles for SMS & MMS messages, Call history, and Device settings.
Previously, these three items were always backed up, but Google is now letting you control whether they are uploaded to the cloud. This joins per-app toggles that are also part of a recent launch.
As a note, Google confirmed to 9to5 this week that “SMS & MMS messages” includes RCS despite the name.
We’re seeing these updated settings begin to roll out with version 26.25 of Google Play services.
Google announced earlier this week that all Android data now counts towards Google Account storage. On average, this is expected to increase user backups by about 40 MB.
In other related developments, Google is beginning to test a new Documents backup option. As previewed in February, “local file backup” will “automatically save your downloaded documents to Google Drive, ensuring they are safe and accessible from any of your devices.”
Once live on your device, there will be a new “Documents” menu on the Backup page alongside Photos & videos and Other device data.
After enabling, a folder named after your device will appear in Google Drive, with this page providing a shortcut to it. Google explains that:
You can manually trigger a device backup to upload your latest Documents, but it otherwise follows the automated daily schedule.
We’re seeing this rolling out with the latest Google Play services beta.