Smart Storage
Also known as: Smart Storage Android, auto-delete backed-up photos, Files by Google Smart Storage
Smart Storage is an Android feature that automatically removes local copies of photos and videos already backed up to Google Photos once they have been on the device for a set period. The originals stay safe in the cloud while the device reclaims space.
- Auto-deletes local copies of backed-up photos and videos
- Originals remain in Google Photos in the cloud
- Toggled in Settings > Storage or in Files by Google
What it does
When enabled, Smart Storage deletes the on-device copy of media that has been successfully backed up to Google Photos after a chosen waiting period. You keep viewing the photos through the cloud; only the redundant local file is cleared.
It runs quietly in the background, so storage stays under control without manual cleanup. The key condition is a working Google Photos backup — Smart Storage only touches media it can confirm is safely uploaded.
Where to turn it on
On stock Android and Pixel, go to Settings > Storage > Free up space, open the menu, choose Settings, and turn on Smart Storage, where you can pick the waiting period. The same control also lives inside the Files by Google app under its storage settings.
Because it deletes local originals, only rely on it if your Google Photos backup is current and you are comfortable viewing those photos from the cloud. If backup ever lapses, pause it to avoid removing un-uploaded media.