How to Delete a Backup That's Synced & Stored on Your Gmail Account

By Alan Sembera

Google backs up your device settings during sychronization.
i Jupiterimages/Creatas/Getty Images

Deleting your Android backup from your Gmail account allows you to activate your new smartphone or tablet without also installing the settings, passwords and app info from your old device. You must delete the backup using your old device before you register your Gmail account on the new device. Deleting the backup does not affect emails, contacts, photos and similar items synced with Gmail and Google.

Step 1

Tap "Settings" on your old Android device.

Step 2

Select "Privacy" on the Settings screen.

Step 3

Remove the check mark next to "Back Up My Data."

Step 4

Click "OK" on the message warning you that you are about to delete your backup on Google servers. Completing this action deletes only the backed-up device settings, passwords and app info backed up on Google's servers.

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