The URL, takeout.google.com, is the official website for Google Takeout. This is a free service provided by Google that allows you to export and download a copy of the content in your Google Account.
What can you do here?
You can use this tool to back up your data or move it to another service. It supports almost every Google product, including:
Google Photos: Download all your images and videos.
Gmail: Export your emails (usually in MBOX format).
Google Drive: Download your documents, sheets, and uploaded files.
YouTube: Export your uploaded videos, watch history, and playlists.
Maps: Download your location history and saved places.
How to use it (Step-by-Step)
Select Data:
Go to the link.
You will see a long list of Google services. By default, everything is selected.
Tip: If you only want specific things (like just your Photos), click “Deselect all” at the top, then scroll down and check only the box for “Google Photos.”
Configure Formats:
Some services have a button that says “Multiple formats”. Click this to choose how you want the data (e.g., choosing if you want your documents as PDF or Word files).
Choose Delivery Method:
Scroll to the bottom and click “Next step.”
Destination: You can choose to get a download link via email (most common), or have the files added directly to Dropbox, OneDrive, or Box.
Frequency: Choose “Export once” or “Export every 2 months for 1 year.”
File size: If your data is huge (like 500GB of photos), you can tell Google to split it into smaller zip files (e.g., 2GB, 10GB, or 50GB chunks).
Create Export:
Click “Create export.”
Note: This is not instant. Depending on how much data you have, it can take hours or even days for Google to prepare the files. You will receive an email when it is ready.
Is it safe?
Yes, as long as the URL starts with https://takeout.google.com/, it is the official secure tool from Google. You will likely be asked to verify your password before starting the export.
Be the first to comment