Google will automatically remove all of a user’s Android backups if the device is idle for 60 days. if the user does not use his device for two weeks. Google will start a 60-day counter for old Android backups. And after that counter equals zero, Google will remove the backup files from the user’s Drive account.
This new mechanism from Google has discovered this week by a Reddit user. Because of a damaged battery, the user was unable to use his device (Nexus 6P) for several months. With only an iPhone to use in the meantime, the backups expired. Now he’s left to start from scratch on the next Android device.
According to Google:
“Your backup will remain as long as you use your device. If you don’t use your device for 2 weeks, you may see an expiration date below your backup.”
Google backups contain very sensitive data such as Apps, Call logs, SMS, Device Settings, Contacts list, Calendar, Photos & videos (Pixel phones only).
The new mechanism isn’t promoted well by Google, so use this chance as a warning to check in every once in a while on those backups if you intend to continue saving them.