Google Photos Plans to Reduce Trash Retention from 60 to 30 Days
Google Photos is preparing to slash its trash bin retention period from 60 days to 30 days for backed-up items, a change uncovered in recent application code. The shift will align cloud-stored media with the existing 30-day window currently applied to files kept solely on local device storage, according to reporting by Frandroid and Phonandroid.
Inside Version 7.90 of the App
The upcoming adjustment surfaced inside version 7.90 of the Google Photos application.
Developers spotted a string of code outlining the policy change. According to Phonandroid, the code explicitly states that elements within the trash bin will face a 30-day limit before permanent deletion, down from the previous 60-day window for cloud-backed files.
Bridging the Local-Cloud Discrepancy
For users, the alteration removes a discrepancy in how different types of deleted files are handled.
Previously, items synchronized to the cloud benefited from a two-month recovery window, while local-only files disappeared after one month. Once the update rolls out widely, all deleted photos and videos will share a uniform 30-day timeline.
Server Storage Overhead and Streamlined Rules
According to analysis from Phonandroid, narrowing the retention window offers dual benefits for the Mountain View-based technology company.
First, it streamlines user expectations by establishing a single, predictable expiration rule across all platforms. Second, it reduces the volume of data stored in server trash bins across millions of accounts, cutting server storage overhead.
Countdown for Recovering Mistakenly Deleted Memories
Users who rely on the extended 60-day buffer to recover mistakenly deleted memories will face a shorter window to reverse their actions.
However, according to reporting by Phonandroid, the update is not yet active for the general public, and the platform is expected to provide advance notice before enforcing the shorter retention limit.