Establishing backups is always a wise strategy. Storing data in just one location poses a significant risk; a single device malfunction could result in the permanent loss of precious information. Numerous methods are available for safeguarding your data, with companies like Google simplifying the process through their integrated cloud backup solutions. Once configured, all your captured photos and videos are automatically synced to the cloud, alleviating the stress of data loss should your phone encounter issues.

Despite the ease offered by cloud backups, they aren’t the sole choice. Regularly transferring copies of your images and videos to an external hard drive is a viable alternative. If you change your platform—say, transitioning from Android to iPhone—and prefer utilizing Apple’s ecosystem over Google’s, retaining all your data on Google’s servers may not be the best option. Moreover, some individuals may prefer not to entrust Google with their entire media library over the years and may wish to reclaim the data they’ve previously uploaded.

However, the challenge lies in disconnecting photos and videos from a Google Photos backup without also erasing those files from your current device, which ultimately defeats the purpose. The most effective workaround thus far has involved using a different device or browser—a solution that remains cumbersome.

This is where Google’s “Undo device backup” feature comes into play. Announced by the company in December, this functionality allows users to erase selected photos and videos from the cloud if those items are already stored on the device. Initially available on iOS—perhaps to assist iPhone users who unintentionally uploaded their media to Google Photos—the feature is now expanding to Android users as well. No matter the platform, one can now revoke cloud backups while ensuring that all photos and videos remain secure.

Steps to Revoke Your Google Photos Backup

If the goal is to remove your photos and videos from a Google Photos backup without affecting the originals on your device, follow these steps: Begin by launching Google Photos on your iPhone or Android device. Then, select your profile icon or initials, and navigate to Photos settings > Backup.

Scroll down until you find the option Undo backup for this device. Check the box next to “I understand that my photos and videos will be deleted from Google Photos,” and then confirm by tapping Delete Google Photos backup.

According to Google, once this action is completed, Backup will be automatically disabled for the device in use. Therefore, it’s crucial to establish an alternative backup strategy. For instance, if you’re utilizing a Pixel phone and decide to reverse your backup, all your photos and videos will be solely stored on that device. Should anything happen to your phone—be it damage or an unexpected malfunction (which unfortunately can occur), those cherished memories could vanish forever.