What is the new ‘Recover Storage’ feature being tested by Google Photos for Android users?
An upcoming update to the Google Photos app for Android could address a common issue for users related to storage space. Currently, users have the option to save images in original quality or a compressed ‘storage saver’ format to free up space. However, this choice only affects newly uploaded files.
New Google Photos feature
According to reports, the upcoming version 6.78 of Google Photos will include a hidden feature called “Restore Storage”, as revealed by PiunikaWeb and advice AssembleDebug. This feature, when enabled manually, provides a new option for users to compress existing photos and videos stored in the app’s cloud storage. This represents a significant development, as previously such compression could only be performed through the web version of Google Photos.
Screenshots of the feature show it in the Manage Storage menu, categorized under the Restore Storage heading. The option appears as “Convert Photos to Storage Saver” and its purpose is a brief description: to free up storage space by converting existing original quality files to a storage saver format. In addition, the application clarifies that compressing files in Google Photos does not affect items stored or added elsewhere in the Google ecosystem, such as Gmail or Drive. However, users are warned that this compression process is irreversible and may take several days depending on the number and size of the files.
How does Google implement a new feature?
Although the feature is not currently available to users, if it is implemented in future updates, users will likely be able to access it under Photo Settings > Backup > Manage Storage > Convert Photos to Storage Saving Path. While the feature was found in the Android version of Google Photos, it’s possible that it could be included in the iOS app as well.
Overall, this potential update promises to address a common concern among Google Photos users by offering a way to reclaim storage space by compressing existing files, potentially streamlining the user experience.
