Deleting all your Google Photos might seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually quite simple. With just a few clicks, you can free up storage space and declutter your online albums. Whether you’re looking to start fresh or just want to create some extra space, follow the steps below to remove all your photos and videos from Google Photos.
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Delete All Google Photos
Before we dive into the step-by-step process, it’s important to know that once you delete your photos from Google Photos, they are gone forever. So, make sure to back up any photos you want to keep before proceeding.
Step 1: Open Google Photos
First, head to the Google Photos website or open the app on your device.
In the app, you’ll find the icon on your home screen or in the app drawer. On the web, simply type "photos.google.com" into your browser and log in with your Google account.
Step 2: Select Photos
Click on the "Photos" tab to see all your uploaded images and videos.
You can click on individual photos to select them or drag your mouse to select multiple items at once. If you’re using the app, tap and hold a photo to start selecting.
Step 3: Delete Photos
After selecting the photos, click the trash can icon to move them to the trash.
The trash can icon can usually be found at the top right corner of the screen. Once you click it, a confirmation message will appear. Confirm that you want to delete the selected items.
After completing these steps, all your selected photos and videos will move to the trash. They will stay in the trash for 60 days before being permanently deleted, giving you a grace period in case you change your mind.
What Happens Next?
Once you’ve deleted your Google Photos, they’ll be moved to the trash, where they’ll remain for 60 days. During this period, you can still recover them if you want. After 60 days, they will be permanently deleted, and you won’t be able to recover them. Remember, if you’ve synced your photos with other devices, they might still be available there.
Tips: How to Delete All Google Photos
- Back up your photos elsewhere before deleting them from Google Photos.
- Use the "Select All" feature to quickly select all photos on the screen.
- Double-check the selected photos before deleting to avoid any accidental loss of important images.
- Consider using Google’s "Free up space" feature if you’re running out of storage but don’t want to delete everything.
- Remember that deleting photos from Google Photos doesn’t delete them from your device if you’ve downloaded them.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I delete all my Google Photos at once?
There isn’t a direct "delete all" button, but you can use the "Select All" feature to select all visible photos on the screen and then delete them in batches.
Will deleting photos from Google Photos free up space on my Google Drive?
Yes, since Google Photos is linked to your Google Drive, deleting photos will free up space in both places.
Can I recover photos after deleting them from Google Photos?
Yes, deleted photos remain in the trash for 60 days, during which you can recover them.
Does deleting photos from Google Photos delete them from my phone as well?
Not necessarily. If you’ve downloaded the photos to your device, they will remain there even after deletion from Google Photos.
Can I delete photos from Google Photos without deleting them from my device?
Yes, you can. Make sure to adjust your Google Photos app settings to only delete the cloud version, not the device copy.
Summary
- Open Google Photos.
- Select photos to delete.
- Click the trash can icon to delete.
Conclusion
Deleting all your Google Photos is a straightforward process that can be done in just a few minutes. Whether you’re looking to free up space, declutter your digital life, or start over with a fresh album, following the steps outlined above will help you achieve your goal. Just remember to back up any important photos before you start the deleting process, as they will be permanently removed after 60 days in the trash. So, go ahead and give your Google Photos account a clean sweep – it’s a simple task that can make a big difference in managing your online storage. Happy decluttering!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.