In a recent joint announcement from Google and WhatsApp, it has been revealed that starting next month, WhatsApp backups will begin utilizing your Google Drive storage. This significant change means that the default 15 GB of storage that comes with Google accounts will be used for WhatsApp backups, posing a potential need for more storage space for users.
For beta users, this alteration will take effect next month and will gradually roll out to all Android users over time. To keep users informed, WhatsApp will display a banner indicating the days remaining before this change becomes active.
The good news is that expanding your Google Drive storage is a straightforward process, and it doesn’t have to break the bank. Google One offers various plans, starting with a basic 100 GB plan priced at Rs. 52 per month in Pakistan for the initial 3 months, and Rs. 209 per month thereafter. This plan can be shared with up to 5 users and includes exclusive workspace features along with dark web monitoring for added security.
For those requiring more storage, a 200 GB plan is available at Rs. 84 per month for the first 3 months, with a subsequent charge of Rs. 339 per month. The highest tier provides 2 TB of storage at Rs. 262 per month initially and Rs. 1049 per month after 3 months.
If you prefer not to invest in additional storage, Google also offers tools to help you optimize your existing storage on Drive and Photos, creating more space without the need for additional expenses.
This development is likely a strategic move by Google to encourage more users to invest in their cloud storage services. Notably, in 2021, Google restricted cloud storage for free accounts to 15 GB, but this adjustment did not impact WhatsApp backups until now. It’s essential to stay informed about these changes, especially for Google Pixel owners who may have experienced issues with receiving additional Google One storage, despite the default unlimited Drive storage that comes with Pixel phones.
