How to Delete Google Photos: A Comprehensive Guide
Deleting photos from Google Photos can seem straightforward, but there are nuances depending on whether you want to remove them from your device, your Google account, or both. This guide will walk you through all the methods, ensuring you understand the implications of each action.
Understanding Google Photos Storage
Before we dive into the deletion process, it's crucial to understand how Google Photos handles storage. Google Photos offers various storage options, including free storage with limitations and paid Google One subscriptions for more space. Understanding your storage plan is vital, as deleting photos impacts your overall storage usage.
Deleting Photos from Your Device
This only removes the photos from your phone or computer; they remain in your Google Photos account.
Deleting Photos on Android:
- Open the Google Photos app.
- Locate the photo(s) you wish to delete. You can select multiple photos by tapping on them.
- Tap the trash can icon. This moves the selected photos to the trash.
Deleting Photos on iOS:
The process is almost identical on iOS:
- Open the Google Photos app.
- Select the photos you want to delete.
- Tap the trash can icon. The photos are moved to the trash.
Deleting Photos on a Computer (Web Browser):
- Go to photos.google.com.
- Select the photos you wish to remove. You can use the selection tools to choose multiple photos.
- Click the trash can icon. The photos are moved to the trash.
Deleting Photos from Your Google Photos Account
This is the crucial step if you want to permanently remove photos from your Google account and free up storage space. Remember, even after deleting photos, they remain in the trash for a period (typically 60 days) before permanent deletion.
- Access the Google Photos trash: This can be done on the app or the website using the "Trash" option in the left-hand navigation menu.
- Select the photos you want to permanently remove from your Google account.
- Click/Tap the "Delete Forever" option. This permanently removes the photos from your Google account.
Important Considerations:
- Trash Duration: Photos stay in the trash for a period before permanent deletion. Check Google's help pages for the exact duration.
- Storage Implications: Deleting photos from your account directly impacts your Google storage. If you're on a limited plan, deleting photos is essential for managing your storage.
- Album Impact: Deleting photos from an album only removes them from that album; the photos remain in your Google Photos account unless you delete them permanently as detailed above.
Deleting All Photos from Google Photos
This is an extreme measure and should only be used when you're sure you want to delete every single photo from your Google account. There's no single button to do this, you must delete them in batches or use third-party tools (proceed with caution when using third-party tools).
Tips for Managing Google Photos Space
- Use high-quality compression: Google offers high-quality uploads which saves storage space.
- Regularly review and delete unwanted photos: Schedule time to clean up your photos to avoid running out of storage.
- Consider a Google One subscription: If you're frequently running out of storage, a paid subscription offers significantly more space.
By following these steps, you can effectively manage and delete photos from Google Photos, ensuring you only keep the memories you cherish while maintaining a healthy storage balance. Remember to always double-check your actions before permanently deleting photos!
