iOS 26.1: A Major Shift in Apple’s Cloud Policy
Apple’s upcoming iOS 26.1 update is bringing a major change that could reshape how iPhone users manage their photos. For the first time, Apple will let third-party cloud apps like Google Photos, OneDrive, and Dropbox back up photos in the background, a privilege that was previously reserved only for iCloud Photos.
This marks a significant policy shift from Apple, which has long restricted continuous background syncing to its own cloud services. Until now, users had to manually open third-party apps to upload new images — a limitation that often frustrated those who preferred non-iCloud storage options.
With this new iOS 26.1 capability, photo backup will happen automatically, even when the app isn’t open, as long as users grant the necessary permissions. Apple says the move aligns with its ongoing effort to provide “more flexibility and transparency” in how users manage their personal data across devices.
Industry experts view this as a direct response to regulatory pressure, particularly in the European Union, where Apple has faced scrutiny over limiting background access for non-Apple apps. By opening up this functionality, Apple could reduce accusations of anti-competitive behavior while also improving user experience.
Developers of popular photo management tools have already started updating their apps to take advantage of the new background backup API. A Google spokesperson hinted that an “enhanced version of Google Photos for iOS” would roll out soon after iOS 26.1’s public release.
For users, the change is simple but impactful — it means faster, more seamless photo backup and greater freedom to choose where their memories live.
iOS 26.1 is expected to roll out globally in early November 2025, following a short beta testing phase for developers and public testers.