Samsung smartphone users are facing a significant shift in cloud backup as the native Gallery app begins integrating Google Fotos to replace Microsoft OneDrive, according to reports from outlets like Olhar Digital and Agora Litoral. This transition updates how media syncs across Galaxy devices running Android 13 or newer, though it introduces notable functional restrictions compared to previous setups.
How the Google Fotos Integration Works on Galaxy Devices
The updated synchronization arrives through recent software packages including Gallery Sync and Samsung Cloud, with version 15.9.01.7 of the Gallery app acting as the primary trigger, according to 9to5Google as cited by Olhar Digital and Agora Litoral. Users who have received the update can activate the new feature by navigating to Menu, then Settings, Sincronizacao, and selecting the option to sync photos and videos, as detailed by Agora Litoral. Zenngi notes that once connected, the interface displays total available storage space, occupied volume, and tools to clear old media or manage paid storage subscriptions directly within the native app.
Important Limitations and Restrictions of the New System
Despite streamlining cloud access, the new integration comes with strict operational boundaries outlined in Google’s official support documentation. Photos and videos synced through this specific Gallery pipeline will not work with Memories, highlights, live albums, or the search tool inside Google Fotos, according to Olhar Digital and Agora Litoral. Furthermore, Google Workspace accounts are entirely incompatible with this automated backup mode. Another key limitation involves visibility: the Samsung Gallery app will only display files that originated from a Samsung device via this specific sync tool, meaning media stored previously on Google Fotos from other sources will not appear in the native gallery, as reported by Agora Litoral.
The End of the Microsoft OneDrive Partnership
This software overhaul marks the definitive conclusion of a partnership initiated in 2021, when OneDrive replaced Samsung Cloud as the default backup provider for Galaxy devices, according to Zenngi. Users who still rely on the Microsoft platform can continue utilizing OneDrive synchronization until September 30, according to Olhar Digital and Agora Litoral. After that deadline, accessing files stored in the Microsoft cloud will require using the standalone OneDrive app or website, as noted by Zenngi. While the broader public rollout is anticipated by tech observers following the expiration of the Microsoft agreement, some enthusiasts have already accessed the feature via early builds of the Gallery Cloud Sync application.
Did you know? A similar cloud integration approach was previously adopted for Samsung’s latest smart TVs, allowing users to view media stored in Google’s cloud directly on television gallery applications before the mobile rollout began taking shape, according to Zenngi.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which operating system version is required for the new Google Fotos integration?
According to Agora Litoral and Olhar Digital, users must have a Samsung device running Android 13 or a newer version of the operating system.
Are Google Workspace accounts compatible with the new Gallery backup?
No, accounts linked to Google Workspace do not support this specific automated backup mode, as reported by Agora Litoral.
Until when will Microsoft OneDrive remain functional on Samsung Gallery?
According to Olhar Digital and Agora Litoral, synchronization with OneDrive will continue operating until September 30.
Where can users enable the Google Fotos sync once available?
Users can activate the feature by going to Samsung Gallery Settings, selecting Sincronizacao, and turning on the photo and video sync option, according to Agora Litoral.
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