Android is getting a long-awaited backup feature for your downloads

The 2026 Google Play System update introduces a new local file backup system that automatically uploads files from your Downloads folder to Google Drive.

Android phones will soon be able to back up to Google Drive

Android local backup means your Downloads folder will back up to Google Drive – iCloud already syncs downloads to the cloud.
9to5Google

Android getting new ‘local file backup’ feature via Google Drive

According to new Google Play Services release notes, Android phones will be getting a “new local file backup feature” with Google Drive.
Android Central on MSN

Google fixes one of Android’s biggest backup gaps, and I think it’s long overdue

Android’s February update finally backs up your Downloads folder to Google Drive, closing a long-ignored gap.
Android Police

Android backup: What doesn't get automatically backed up and saved

Faith writes guides, how-tos, and roundups on the latest Android games and apps for Android Police. You'll find her writing about the newest free-to-play game to hit Android or discussing her paranoia ...
Android Authority

Android phone backups may soon get an option to save all your downloads (APK teardown)

Android offers convenient built-in backup tools, but these don’t automatically save every file on your phone. Google appears to be working on a new option to explicitly back up downloaded files. At ...
Android Police

Google's working on an update to Android's backup settings, but it's more form than function

Karandeep Singh Oberoi is a Durham College Journalism and Mass Media graduate who joined the Android Police team in April 2024, after serving as a full-time News Writer at Canadian publication ...
9to5google

Google’s Android device backups might be able to store your SIM too

New findings suggest that Android devices may soon be able to include your SIM in a device backup, potentially making it that much easier to swap phones. Device backups currently save things such as ...