Android devices come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and function while also being the dominant mobile operating system for smartphones across the globe. As a result, more people than ever trust Android devices with their precious information. Thankfully backing up and restoring your personal data is simple and easy using just a couple services and settings built into your Android Device.
Backup your data with Android Backup Service:
Android Backup Service is an essential service to enable when safeguarding the data and settings on your Android Device. Once enabled, it will backup system data like saved Wi-Fi networks and passwords, Gmail settings, installed apps, wallpapers, and other general system settings to your private Google Account. To enable Android Backup Service on your device, open your Settings and navigate to Backup & Reset > Backup my data.
Restore your data with Android Backup Service:
If your Android device happens to have an unfortunate accident, or if you purchase a new device, restoring from Android Backup Service will do a lot of the work for you to return your personal information and settings to your device. During the initial setup phase of any Android device you will be prompted to add your Google Account. Once signed into your account, if Android Backup Service was previously enabled, your device settings will automatically be restored to your device.
Backup your Photos & Videos with Google Photos:
Nearly all Android devices come with the Google Photos App pre-installed, which is conveniently able to automatically Backup & Sync your Android Device’s photos and videos to your Google account. To enable Backup & Sync, first open your Google Photos app. Press the Menu Icon on the top left-hand corner of the screen. Next select Settings > Backup & Sync, and switch it on.
There are a number of other settings for Backup Settings to take into consideration depending on your needs and preferences. By Default Photos and Videos will only backup while connected to Wi-Fi, but you can change your settings so it will also backup over your Cellular Data Connection. Be aware that this may increase your monthly data usage.
Restore your Photos & Videos with Google Photos:
If your Android device happens to have an unfortunate accident, or if you purchase a new device, restoring from Google Photos is a quick and easy way to return your photos and videos to your device. During the initial setup phase for any Android device you will be prompted to add your Google Account. Once signed into your account, if Backup & Sync was previously enabled, your photos and videos will automatically restore to your device.