How to Fix Refresh Failed in OneDrive Camera Backup on Android
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.
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.
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Outdated or corrupted application files can frequently cause synchronization and backup failures.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In many cases, cloud syncing issues on Android are tied to background service glitches or outdated app versions.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.
Open the Google Play Store on your Android device, search for 'OneDrive', and tap 'Update' if a newer version is available.
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.
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.
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. Install WPS Office: Download and install WPS Office directly from the Google Play Store.
- 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. Save Documents Online: Open or create any document, tap 'Save As', and select 'WPS Cloud' to ensure your files are safely backed up.

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.




