Google Photos settings: 13 tweaks for backup, privacy, and AI control

Elyse Betters Picaro, a ZDNET senior contributing editor, outlines 13 critical Google Photos settings she adjusts on every new device to optimize backup, privacy, and AI features. First, she ensures the correct Google account is selected for backups—avoiding accidental uploads to work or old accounts. She then enables backup but with limits: on iPhone, she sets iOS Photos to "Limited Access" so only selected photos sync; on Android, she restricts permissions to specific folders. Cellular backup is disabled to prevent data overage charges, and overnight backup is enabled to upload while the phone charges, avoiding daytime battery drain.

Additional settings include reviewing AI tools like face grouping and magic eraser, turning off shared library suggestions, managing storage saver quality vs. original, and disabling device folder backup for screenshots and downloads. She also adjusts notification preferences to reduce alerts from shared albums and memories. These steps help professionals maintain a clean, searchable photo library while conserving cloud storage and controlling privacy. The full list covers account, backup, sharing, and AI settings across iOS and Android, ensuring Google Photos works efficiently without surprises.