Starting August 10, 2026, Google will discontinue support for backing up Google Photos via its Drive for desktop application.

This update impacts users who depend on the desktop app to automatically upload photos and videos from designated folders on their computers to Google Photos.

This update does not indicate that Google Photos is closing.

All photos and videos that have already been backed up to Google Photos will stay accessible. However, users who keep relying on the old Drive for desktop configuration may find that their newly added photos are no longer being backed up.

What is different now?

Previously, Drive for desktop let users choose folders on their computers and upload photos and videos from those folders to Google Photos.

Google has been gradually discontinuing this feature and has already blocked users from creating new Google Photos backup folders via the desktop Drive application.

Starting August 10, the desktop application will discontinue support for this method of backing up Google Photos.

The update separates Google’s desktop file syncing tool from its independent photo backup service.

Steps to backup Current Photos

Users who currently rely on the Drive for desktop feature should transition their photo backup configuration to Google Photos.

On your computer, launch Google Photos and locate the setting to back up folders. Choose the folders that hold the photos and videos you want to safeguard, then let the backup run until it is complete.

It is also essential to review Google Photos once the upload is complete. This helps verify that the chosen files appear correctly and ensures there were no interruptions in the backup process.

Who are Impacted

This update primarily affects users who rely on Drive for desktop to back up photos and videos saved on their computers.

This update does not impact users who mainly back up photos from their smartphones using the Google Photos app.

Likewise, those who have never relied on Drive for desktop’s Google Photos backup feature are not required to take any action.

Key points users should keep in mind

Google Photos will operate as normal. The adjustment taking effect on August 10 solely removes the ability to back up photos to Google Photos using the desktop Google Drive route.

For individuals with extensive photo libraries, photographers, or anyone preserving important memories on their computer, reviewing their backup settings is a valuable step.