Google Photos rolled out desktop folder backups

Google Photos just launched an amazing new feature that lets users easily back up folders from their PC to the cloud directly through its website. This is a game-changer for anyone looking to store their desktop images without the hassle of using extra apps. However, there are some limitations that come with this update.

How does Google Photos desktop folder backup work?

Currently, the Google Photos website has introduced a new feature that allows you to back up folders from your desktop effortlessly. Now, you can easily back up your PC folders directly from the Google Photos website without downloading the Google Drive app. Just follow a few simple steps and you’re all set!

1. To backup your photos, go to the Google Photos website and sign in to your account.
2. Next, click on the Upload button at the top right.
3. Choose Backup folders from the menu.
4. Select the folder you wish to back up.
5. Decide on the upload quality, and then click on Continue.

After completing these steps, Google Photos will kick off the backup process, allowing you to effortlessly store your desktop files in your Google account without needing external software.

There are two key limitations to the feature

• Firstly, despite its user-friendly interface, this feature has two major drawbacks. As pointed out by some people, the first issue is that backups only take place when the Google Photos website is open in Google Chrome. Unfortunately, the process doesn’t run in the background if the tab is closed or if Chrome shuts it down to save memory, rendering it unreliable for continuous or automated backups.
• Secondly, the feature’s limitation to Google Chrome only is quite frustrating, as even other Chromium-based browsers like Brave and Microsoft Edge do not support it, leaving Safari users, especially those on Apple devices, greatly disappointed as the feature doesn’t work on Apple’s browser.

Although convenient, this option is limited. There’s potential for the feature to become even better, particularly in terms of improving cross-browser compatibility and enabling automatic backups without requiring a Chrome tab to remain open.