Yandex Disk restricts desktop apps for free users from June
Yandex Disk will restrict the complete functioning of desktop applications from June 3rd. Usuários from the free plan loses automatic synchronization and full access to cloud files via the desktop. The change affects versions for Windows and macOS.
The company cited the increase in the use of large files as the reason. The desktop app consumes more infrastructure resources when dealing with high volumes of data. With the change, anyone who does not subscribe to an Yandex 360 plan will only have access to files already downloaded locally. The web version and mobile apps continue to be available unchanged for free accounts.
“Starting June 3, Yandex 360, the digital platform, will disable cloud file synchronization in Yandex Disk for free desktop users, according to online users. The company confirmed the change in terms.” https://t.co/CTd6e2slMw
— Andy_Weeble_Weaver😷⚫🦋andy-weaver.bsky.social🗿 (@AndrewW66619812) May 20, 2026
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Mudança affects real-time synchronization
From the indicated date, the desktop application for free users stops synchronizing new files or folders with the cloud. Edições made online also does not automatically reflect on the computer. The service maintains existing storage space and files do not disappear.
Quem already has files downloaded on the device and is still able to open them. However, operations that depend on a connection to the cloud, such as automatic uploading or updating versions, are limited. Yandex 360 justified the decision by the growth in professional use of the app for heavy files.
- The desktop app stops syncing new files in the cloud for free accounts
- Usuários only see content previously downloaded to the computer
- Versão web and mobile apps maintain all normal functions
- Paid Planos preserve full sync and extra features
Essa restriction applies to desktop versions of Windows and macOS. Não mentions the impact on Linux, which uses a command-line tool.
Planos individual Yandex 360 maintain prices
The company offers two plans for individual users. The “For Mim” delivers 200 GB to 2 TB of storage. Amounts range from 319 to 699 rubles per month. “Family” has the same volumes, but costs between 379 and 839 rubles per month.
Ambos include unlimited desktop sync, large file upload, and other benefits. Yandex reported that there is a discounted offer for the first few months for some users. Plans do not change structure with the update.
Muitos users turn to Yandex Disk because of the initial 5 GB free space. Desktop limitations may lead some of them to look for alternatives or migrate to paid plans. The company highlighted that the change helps maintain the stability of the service.
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Comparação with other cloud services on Rússia
Concorrentes take different approaches to free accounts. The Sber offers 15GB and unlocks subscription-free sync and AI features. VK’s Cloud Mail also allows basic storage and synchronization for all users. Paid Assinaturas adds more space, AI and ad removal.
The Yandex decision focuses on the desktop app, which requires more infrastructure for large volumes. Outros services keep syncing free, but with lower limits or ads. The change reinforces Yandex 360’s monetization strategy.
What changes in practice for those who use the service
Após June 3, Free users open the desktop app and find only locally saved files. Qualquer attempt to sync new folders or edit online fails or becomes restricted. The recommendation is to use the web version to manage files in the cloud.
Quem works with large files or needs continuous synchronization should consider a paid plan. Yandex recommends checking the special offer available for some accounts. The free space continues to exist, but with reduced functionality on the desktop.
The update comes at a time of growing cloud use for remote work and media storage. Empresas like Yandex seek to balance operational costs with offering limited free services.
Dicas for users affected by the restriction
Quem depends on the desktop can download important files ahead of time or migrate to the web version. Alternativas like Google Drive, Dropbox or local services offer free synchronization with varying limits. The Cloud Mail and Sber appear as direct options on the Russian market.
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Para whoever decides to subscribe, the process takes place via the Yandex 360 website. Plans include additional storage and premium features. Usuários must evaluate the actual file volume before choosing the package.
Yandex remains committed to not deleting existing data. The change only focuses on access via the desktop app for accounts without a subscription.
