Microsoft faced a significant backlash from OneDrive users after proposing changes to how photo storage would be counted. The tech giant had initially intended to alter how photos in albums were accounted for within the storage quota. However, following widespread discontent, Microsoft reevaluated its plans.
Proposed Changes: Counting Photos Separately
Earlier this year, Microsoft notified OneDrive users of a forthcoming change in how the service would handle photo storage. According to the proposed alteration, photos saved in the Gallery and organized into albums would count separately against the overall Microsoft storage quota. This adjustment was set to be implemented from October 16.
The proposed change didn’t sit well with the user base, as it meant that each photo would essentially deduct file size from the storage allowance twice—once for the default Gallery upload and again for any albums the image was placed in.
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For users with extensive photo collections, this change could significantly deplete their storage allocation. Moreover, this move was followed by Microsoft’s decision to withdraw its unlimited storage offer for Office 365 Home and Personal subscribers.
Attempted Mitigation: Storage Bonus Offer
Anticipating the discontent, Microsoft attempted to mitigate the impact by offering a “one-time storage bonus” that would last for a year. This was an effort to offset the repercussions of the new policy, ensuring at least Outlook.com emails would continue to function even if storage was constrained. However, users remained dissatisfied with this proposed solution.
Backtracking on Changes: Microsoft Heeds User Feedback
In response to the strong opposition and discontent expressed by users, Microsoft decided to abandon its plans for the proposed storage changes. Acknowledging the feedback received, the company announced that they would maintain the current photo album experience without implementing the intended alterations.
Microsoft’s decision to reverse these changes is a testament to their willingness to listen to user feedback and adapt their approach accordingly. This move reflects a balance between ensuring the financial viability of OneDrive and maintaining its usefulness and appeal to customers.
OneDrive’s Continued Popularity: A Preferred Cloud Storage Solution
Despite the proposed changes and the subsequent retraction, OneDrive remains a favored cloud storage solution for many users, particularly due to its seamless integration in Windows 11 and the generous 1TB of storage offered in Microsoft 365 subscriptions.
The cancellation of the proposed alterations ensures that OneDrive remains a reliable and user-friendly storage option for countless users.
