[REVISION HISTORY]

Google Photos data retention policy update

Updated 2 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-09-09 08:58 UTC → 2026-09-11 11:32 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Google has implemented a policy change to Google Photos that unifies the retention periods for deleted media. Previously, backed-up files remained in the trash for 60 days, while non-backed-up items were deleted after 30 days. Under the new policy, the recovery window for all deleted backed-up photos and videos has been reduced to 30 days. This change aligns Google Photos with the existing 30-day limits used for local device files, Gmail, and Google Drive. The update is being rolled out via Android and iOS apps, with users receiving in-app notifications. The policy is now operational for all users, including those on Android devices. Google is communicating the update through in-app notifications and updated support documentation. Once the 30-day period expires, deleted content is permanently removed and cannot be recovered. Additionally, users who manually empty their trash will still face immediate, irreversible deletion.

Versions

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