Finally: You Might Soon Be Able to Schedule Your Google Photos backup

Google is continuing to refine the visual identity of its app ecosystem with the rollout of the “Material 3 Expressive” Android design language. The next target for this aesthetic overhaul appears to be the settings menu within Google Photos. However, beyond the fresh coat of paint, a deep dive into the app’s code suggests that Google is preparing to launch a functionality that users have been requesting for years: more granular control over the Google Photos backup process.

According to an exclusive APK teardown conducted by Android Authority, version 7.58.0.853810532 of the Google Photos app contains hidden references to a new “Backup schedule” feature.

A Cleaner, Expressive Interface

The report reveals that the Google Photos backup settings page is undergoing a significant layout reorganization. The update aims to declutter the interface by moving key toggles—such as backup mode, quality settings, and mobile data usage—into distinct, rounded containers.

These options will be organized under clear new headings: “How to back up,” “What to back up,” and “Backup tools.” This structure aligns with Google’s broader push to make its apps more intuitive and visually consistent.

Finally: Scheduling Your Google Photos Backup

While the visual refresh is welcome, the functional addition discovered by Android Authority is the real headline. Under the new “Backup tools” section, the code reveals an unreleased feature labeled “Backup schedule.”

For years, the Google Photos backup system has operated somewhat autonomously, uploading images whenever Wi-Fi became available or instantly via mobile data, depending on user settings. This often led to complaints about battery drain or network slowdowns during peak usage hours.

Although the code does not yet fully detail how the tool will work, the presence of a scheduler suggests users may soon be able to define specific time windows for uploads—perhaps limiting syncs to overnight charging periods—or set intervals such as daily or weekly backups.

Addressing Long-Standing User Requests

The inability to schedule uploads has been a persistent pain point in community forums. Users have long asked for a way to prevent the Google Photos backup process from running during the work day or when bandwidth is needed for other tasks.

While Google has not officially announced a release date for these features, their presence in the app’s code indicates that development is in advanced stages. If implemented as expected, this update would represent one of the most practical quality-of-life improvements to the service in recent memory.