The long-standing mobile partnership between Samsung and Microsoft is showing signs of being shaken by a critical decision from Samsung. Starting next year, Samsung is removing the Microsoft OneDrive cloud storage app as the default storage option on Galaxy mobile devices and introducing its own cloud solution. This development raises questions about the future of the relationship between the two tech giants.

Samsung and Microsoft alliance may end

Galaxy devices come pre-installed with many Microsoft apps, and Windows operating systems also prioritize Samsung devices in their mobile device connectivity app. Discounted subscriptions or subscription gifts are also occasionally offered.

Samsung’s use of Microsoft’s OneDrive cloud storage solution on Galaxy devices was also part of this partnership. However, a development revealed in the OneUI 8.5 beta release has raised the possibility that this partnership is beginning to weaken.

According to reports, the Samsung Gallery app will discontinue OneDrive integration as of April 11, 2026. After this date, photo and video backups will be made through Samsung Cloud instead of Microsoft’s service.

The new cloud system will offer 15GB of free storage to every user. This space will allow for cloud syncing not only for photos and videos, but also for apps like Samsung Notes, Memo, S Note, and Scrapbook, as well as voice recordings, music files, and documents. This move is considered a significant step for Samsung in centralizing its cloud solution within the mobile ecosystem.