Google may have found a way to differentiate data based on its value.
Google reportedly is developing a feature allowing Android users to exclude certain data when creating a backup.
A report indicates Google may be developing more specific controls for Android users in Play Services. While not yet available, the feature would let users choose which app data to exclude from backups. Currently, users can view backup details by going to Settings, tapping their name, then Manage backup, and Other device data. This displays the amount of data stored, grouped into categories such as:
* SMS & MMS messages
* Call history
* Device settings
* Apps & app data
The potential update would present a page showing device details, with each app listed individually alongside its data storage amount. A toggle next to each app would allow users to exclude specific app data from backups. This could be helpful for excluding data from apps with large storage footprints.
For instance, on a Pixel 6 Pro, 114 apps with backup support store 153MB of data, averaging 1.3MB per app. This feature would make it easier to identify and exclude apps that store significant amounts of data.
While in development, this feature may be subject to changes or potential cancellation. Implementing this feature would allow users to choose what data to include in their backups.