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Samsung rolls out free cloud backups for Galaxy flagships, but there is a catch

By Wei Zhang
2 min read
Samsung S20
Samsung S20
In this article (5)

Samsung is simplifying the challenge of finding sufficient storage for smartphone backups with its new free solution. Named Temporary Cloud Backup, this service is designed for Galaxy smartphone and tablet users, providing them with access to as much temporary storage as needed.

Samsung’s Temporary Cloud Backup provides users with complimentary file storage in the cloud for 30 days. There is a file size restriction of 100 GB each; however, users can store an unlimited number of files through their Samsung device running One UI 6.0 or higher, which is another stipulation.

“This upgraded switching experience based on Samsung Cloud aims to provide peace of mind to Samsung Galaxy users that precious data will not be lost, thanks to the connected power of Galaxy’s ecosystem,” said Chiyoung Seo, VP & Head of Cloud Team, Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics.

Temporary Cloud Backup would be particularly useful for scenarios where users may fear data loss, such as when getting a smartphone repaired. Samsung has integrated Temporary Cloud Backup into Maintenance Mode, ensuring the secure backup of personal data, including files within the Secure Folder, for recovery after repairs.

Samsung released Maintenance Mode a year ago to give its users more security. Maintenance Mode creates a separate user account for repairs, keeping your private stuff safe. To use it, just go to Battery and device-care in Settings, hit Maintenance Mode, and reboot. Your personal info, like photos and messages, stays off-limits after the restart.
When using Temporary Cloud Backup, users should note that a notification will be sent when the 30-day storage period concludes, and files stored for the full period will be automatically deleted. The 30-day limit applies to each file individually, and the countdown starts upon file upload.

Initially, this feature is rolling out to Galaxy S models running One UI 6.0 or higher for users in South Korea. Global availability is expected to expand gradually from this fall.

Questions & Answers

Q.

What is the maximum size allowed for each file uploaded to Temporary Cloud Backup?

A.

There is a file size restriction of 100 GB for each individual file. However, users can store an unlimited number of files overall through their Samsung device.

Q.

Which Samsung devices are compatible with Temporary Cloud Backup?

A.

This service is designed for Galaxy smartphone and tablet users running One UI 6.0 or higher. Initially, it is rolling out to Galaxy S models in South Korea.

Q.

What happens to files if they remain in Temporary Cloud Backup for the full 30-day period?

A.

Users receive a notification when the 30-day storage period concludes. Files stored for the full period will then be automatically deleted from the cloud.

Q.

When is Temporary Cloud Backup expected to become available outside South Korea?

A.

Global availability for Temporary Cloud Backup is expected to expand gradually from this fall. It is currently rolling out to users in South Korea.

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