Samsung Launched Google Photos Gallery Integration
The company has transitioned its default cloud backup service from Microsoft OneDrive to Google Photos.
Updated on Sept. 18, 2026 in Consumer Electronics
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Samsung has introduced a new synchronization feature for Google Photos within its Gallery app. This update allows users to back up media in original quality directly to their Google account.
Why it matters
The change marks a significant shift in cloud storage partnerships for the manufacturer as its agreement with Microsoft OneDrive concludes. This integration streamlines media management for millions of Samsung device owners worldwide.
The integration is available in Samsung Gallery version 15.9.01.7 for devices running Android 13 or later. It enables original-quality uploads and full two-way synchronization between the device and Google Photos.
The players
Samsung
A multinational technology corporation that produces a wide range of consumer electronics including smartphones, tablets, and wearable devices.
Google Photos
A photo sharing and storage service developed by Google that offers cloud-based backups for images and videos across various platforms.
Microsoft OneDrive
A file hosting service and synchronization platform operated by Microsoft that has served as the previous cloud backup partner for Samsung devices.
The details
Users can activate the new sync capability by navigating to the Gallery app menu, selecting settings, and choosing the Sync photos and videos option. Once enabled, deleting a file from either the Gallery or Google Photos will remove it from both locations and the cloud.
Timeline
Samsung began rolling out the Google Photos integration in September 2026.
The partnership with Microsoft OneDrive is scheduled to end in late September 2026.
The Tech Race
This transition highlights the ongoing battle for ecosystem dominance in mobile cloud services as manufacturers consolidate backup solutions. By replacing the Microsoft-led infrastructure with Google Photos, Samsung is aligning its hardware more closely with the native Android environment.
Users will need to configure their synchronization settings and decide whether to enable mobile data usage for uploads to avoid excessive data charges. Because deletions now sync across platforms, users should exercise caution when clearing space in either the Gallery or Google Photos app.
The takeaway
Users should verify their backup settings immediately to ensure their photos are preserved as the OneDrive partnership ends. This change simplifies storage by centralizing media under a single Google account for most Android users.
Further reading
For more information on the latest updates, visit the Consumer Electronics section.
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