Samsung Gallery adds photo sync through Google storage

Samsung Electronics is offering a Gallery sync service built in collaboration with Google. Photos and videos sync to the storage of a user's Google account and can be viewed in Gallery on supported Galaxy phones and tablets. Samsung says users with Samsung and Google accounts already set up on the device do not need a separate cloud account. A new "Free up space" feature lets users delete the original files from the device once they are synced, while thumbnails stay visible in Gallery.

Owners of more than one Galaxy device can see the same library on each, as long as every device uses the same Samsung and Google accounts with sync turned on. On a new Galaxy device, Samsung says users see previews first and can download originals as needed, so the whole library does not have to be copied over. Deleting a synced item in Gallery also removes it from Google storage and from the other connected devices.

Samsung says the rollout has begun, but only for certain Galaxy models on One UI 9, with more devices to follow in phases. Availability varies by market and device model. To turn it on, tap the Cloud icon in Gallery, or open Gallery Settings and switch on "Sync photos and videos." Synced files count against the Google account's storage, which Gmail, Google Drive and Google Photos also draw on. A Google account comes with up to 15 GB free, and Samsung says Gallery sync adds no separate allowance. More space is available through paid Google One plans. At launch, Gallery shows only content synced through Gallery after sync is enabled. Photos already in Google storage do not appear automatically. Direct sync between Gallery and OneDrive ended on 30 September 2026. Content already synced to OneDrive remains available through its app or website.

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