OneDrive File Issues

How to Back Up Samsung Photos to OneDrive Without Deletion Sync

Kushani Nimanthika Oct 8, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to back up photos from a Samsung device to OneDrive while keeping the cloud copies intact even if the photos are deleted from the local device storage.

How to Back Up Samsung Gallery Photos to OneDrive Without Deletion Sync

Product: Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS: Android
Scenario: Backing up mobile photos to the cloud without enforcing two-way deletion synchronization.
Observed behavior: The OneDrive app defaults to a two-way synchronization with Samsung Gallery on newer devices, causing photos deleted on the phone to also be deleted from OneDrive, rather than offering a one-way Camera backup option.

Before you start

Ensure you have your Samsung and Microsoft account login credentials handy, and consider backing up your most recent photos to a computer or external drive to avoid accidental data loss during the unlinking process.

Solution 1Recommended

Unlink Samsung Account and Use OneDrive Camera Backup

By disconnecting the built-in Samsung Gallery sync integration, you can force OneDrive to revert to its standard, one-way Camera backup feature.

Samsung's deep integration with Microsoft OneDrive often forces a two-way sync, meaning deletions are mirrored across both your phone and the cloud. Unlinking the accounts allows you to use basic one-way photo backup.

Navigate to Account Settings

Open your Samsung device Settings, scroll down, and tap on 'Accounts and backup'. From there, select 'Manage accounts'.

Unlink Microsoft Account

Tap on your Samsung account, choose 'Linked accounts' under the Apps and services section, and proceed to unlink your Microsoft account.

Enable OneDrive Camera Backup

Open the Microsoft OneDrive app, go to Settings, and toggle on the standard 'Camera backup' option to upload photos without syncing deletions.

Unlink Samsung Account and Use OneDrive Camera Backup

Camera Backup Availability: If the Camera backup option does not appear immediately after unlinking, try signing out and signing back into the OneDrive app.

Solution 2

Clear Data and Reset the OneDrive App

If unlinking the account doesn't bring back the Camera backup option, resetting the OneDrive app can clear cached settings and restore default backup behaviors.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does deleting a photo on my Samsung phone automatically delete it from OneDrive?

When your Samsung Gallery is directly linked to OneDrive, it utilizes a two-way synchronization feature rather than a one-way backup. This means any change made on your phone, including file deletions, is automatically mirrored in the cloud.

Can I recover photos that were already deleted by the Samsung Gallery sync?

Yes, photos deleted through the sync process are typically sent to the OneDrive Recycle Bin. You can restore them within 30 days by logging into OneDrive on the web or via the mobile app, navigating to the Recycle Bin, and selecting 'Restore'.

Does unlinking my Samsung account from Microsoft delete my existing OneDrive files?

No, unlinking your Samsung and Microsoft accounts simply stops the continuous synchronization between the two services. All previously synced photos and documents will remain safely stored in your OneDrive account.

Document & File Issues