Google’s current guidance says Drive for desktop ended Google Photos backup support on August 10, 2026. As of this article’s November 3 review, do not follow older instructions that tell you to configure a new Photos backup through Drive for desktop.
Separate Drive sync from Photos backup
Synchronizing ordinary files with Google Drive remains a different workflow from adding photos and videos to Google Photos. A Drive folder containing pictures does not by itself establish that they appear in your Photos library.
Google says previously backed-up Photos items remain in Google Photos. The end of the desktop integration should not be interpreted as automatic deletion of those existing items.
Use the current Photos workflow
For supported computer folder backup, Google’s current Photos instructions use photos.google.com, Create and add photos, then Back up folders. Select the intended folders and review the requested browser permissions.
The Photos tab must remain open or the supported Photos web app must be running for that background workflow. Browser support matters, and the guide says an Apple Photos Library is not supported through this folder-backup method.
Verify uploads before changing originals
Inspect the Photos backup status and representative items under the correct account. Do not assume a legacy Drive checkbox proves current backup activity. Keep local originals and any approved independent archive until the new route is verified. Review Google storage, upload requirements, and organizational restrictions before transferring media. Some official pages retain older steps alongside transition notices; follow the dated end-of-support notice and current Photos procedure rather than treating every legacy paragraph as an available present-day feature.
References
- Customize Drive for desktop settings
- Manage Google Drive for desktop: Advanced guide
- Back up photos & videos
Reviewed against the linked official product guidance on November 3, 2026. Features, limits, screen labels, and access can vary by account, platform, region, and organization policy.