Google Drive has just shut down desktop app Photos backups

By Simon Batt Updated Aug 10, 2026, 9:10 AM EDT Simon is a Computer Science BSc graduate who has been writing about technology since 2014, and using Windows machines since 3.1. After working for an indie game studio and acting as the family's go-to technician for all computer issues, he found his passion for writing and decided to use his skill set to write about all things tech. Since beginning his writing career, he has written for many different publications such as WorldStart , Listverse , and MakeTechEasier . However, after finding his home at MakeUseOf in February 2019, he would eventually move on to its sister site, XDA, to bring the latest and greatest in Windows, Linux, and DIY electronics. Sign in to your XDA account Add Us Add on Google Preferred Source Google News Like Like follow Follow followed Followed Thread 1 Log in Here is a fact-based summary of the story contents: Try something different: Show me the facts Explain it like I’m 5 Give me a lighthearted recap Summary Google Drive's desktop app now no longer backs up to Google Photos; your cloud backups stay intact. Deselect Backup to Google Photos in Google Drive's Preferences to avoid conflicting backups; files won't be deleted. Switch to Google Photos: use the Plus button > Back up Folders For Continuous Backup , or Import Photos From Drive . If you're using the Google Drive desktop app to back up your images to Photos, you'll want to change that starting today. The internet giant recently announced that it has cut off support for Google Photos, and from now on, it will no longer back up your files.