logo
search
OneDrive Error Codes

How to Fix Refresh Failed in OneDrive Camera Backup on Android

Maira MehtabMaira Mehtab Sep 28, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is attempting to resolve a 'Refresh Failed' error message when using the camera backup feature in the OneDrive Android app.

Product
OneDrive
Device & OS
Android
Scenario
Backing up camera roll photos to cloud storage using the mobile app.
Observed behavior
The app continuously displays a 'Refresh Failed' message on both Wi-Fi and mobile data networks, and the issue persists even after restarting the application and the phone.
Before you start

Ensure your Android device has a stable internet connection and verify if other OneDrive features, such as file browsing or manual document uploads, are functioning correctly before proceeding.

Solution 1Recommended

Update or Reinstall the OneDrive App

Outdated or corrupted application files can frequently cause synchronization and backup failures. Updating or reinstalling the app clears these corrupted states.

In many cases, cloud syncing issues on Android are tied to background service glitches or outdated app versions. Performing a fresh installation forces the app to re-authenticate and rebuild its synchronization cache.

1
Update the App

Open the Google Play Store on your Android device, search for 'OneDrive', and tap 'Update' if a newer version is available.

2
Reinstall OneDrive

If no update is available or updating did not resolve the issue, go to Settings > Apps > OneDrive and select 'Uninstall'. Restart your phone, then download the app again from the Google Play Store.

3
Contact Microsoft Support

If the error continues after a fresh installation, navigate to the official OneDrive support portal (https://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/p/?LinkId=528676) to submit a ticket for further technical assistance.

Data Safety: Uninstalling the OneDrive app will not delete any photos or files that have already been successfully backed up to your cloud storage account.
Free Microsoft Office alternative

Manage Your Documents Effectively with WPS Office

While dealing with Microsoft ecosystem sync issues, consider using WPS Office as a lightweight, reliable alternative for your daily document management. It provides a robust suite for editing files with seamless format support and its own integrated cloud saving features.

  1. 1. Install WPS Office: Download and install WPS Office directly from the Google Play Store.
  2. 2. Sign In for Cloud Access: Launch the app and sign in with your email or social account to activate your free WPS Cloud storage space.
  3. 3. Save Documents Online: Open or create any document, tap 'Save As', and select 'WPS Cloud' to ensure your files are safely backed up.
Fully compatible with Microsoft Office file formats, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.Includes built-in WPS Cloud to safely back up and sync your important documents across devices.Lightweight architecture that takes up minimal storage space on your Android device.Free and straightforward to use with a highly familiar, user-friendly interface.
microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does OneDrive camera backup display a 'Refresh Failed' error?

This error typically occurs due to unstable network connectivity, outdated app versions, or a corrupted app cache on your Android device preventing the background sync service from running properly.

Will clearing the OneDrive app data delete my cloud files?

No. Clearing the app data or cache from your Android Settings only removes temporary local files and requires you to sign back in. Your files safely stored in the cloud will remain untouched.

How do I clear the cache for the OneDrive app on Android?

Navigate to your device Settings, tap on 'Apps' or 'App Management', find 'OneDrive', tap on 'Storage & cache', and then select the 'Clear Cache' button.