Modern smartphones are rapidly filled with data, and the built-in memory is often not enough for comfortable use of the device. Users are faced with low-space notifications, which results in system slowdowns and the inability to install new updates. The solution to this problem lies in proper management of storage resources, and many device owners are wondering: how to change the storage location on Androidto unload the main partition.
The operating system Android provides flexible tools for working with external media, such like MicroSDcards and USB flash drives via OTG. However, the setup process is not always obvious and may differ depending on the firmware version and gadget model. In this article, we will analyze in detail all the available methods for transferring data, turning a memory card into part of the system and manually managing files.
Preparing external media and checking compatibility
Before you start changing settings, you need to make sure that your smartphone is technically ready to work with external drives. Not all modern flagships are equipped with a SIM card slot, so the first step is to physically inspect the SIM card tray or check the specifications on the manufacturer's official website. If there is no slot, the only option is to use MicroSD, so the first step is to physically inspect the SIM card tray or check the specifications on the manufacturer's official website. If there is no slot, the only option is to use USB OTG an adapter.
Choosing the right memory card is critical to system stability. Cheap media with low write speeds can cause serious interface lag, especially if you plan to use it as an expansion of internal memory. It is recommended to choose standard cards UHS-I or UHS-II with a speed class of at least 10.
⚠️ Attention: When formatting a card as internal storage, all data on it will be permanently deleted. Be sure to back up important photos and documents to your computer before starting the procedure.
It is also worth considering that some manufacturers, such as Samsung or Huawei, may programmatically limit the ability to install applications on third-party drives. In such cases, only transferring media files, but not system apps, is available.
Setting up a memory card as internal storage
A function known as Adoptable Storageallows the system to perceive an external memory card as an integral part of the main drive. After activating this option Android encrypts the media, and it becomes unreadable on other devices without resetting the settings. This is the most radical, but effective way to increase volume.
To activate the mode, you need to go to the settings menu. The path usually looks like this: Settings → Storage → SD card. In the menu that opens, select “Customize” or “Format”, and then select the “Use as internal storage” option. The system will automatically offer to transfer data.
☑️ Preparing for formatting
The formatting process can take from several minutes to an hour, depending on the size of the card and the speed of the processor. It is strictly forbidden to interrupt this operation, as this will damage the file system and make it impossible to read data.
⚠️ Attention: MIUI, OneUI and ColorOS shell interfaces may hide this function. If there is no “Use as internal” option, the manufacturer may have blocked this feature for your model.
After the setup is complete, the system will offer to move existing content. This action will free up significant space in the built-in partition, transferring photos, videos and part of the cache to the new drive.
If the card is slow after formatting, try formatting it again by selecting the "Use as portable storage" option, and transfer files manually only as needed.
Moving installed applications to the SD card
Even if you haven't used internal storage mode, many applications can be moved to the card manually. This function is available in the settings of each specific software, however, the list of apps that support transfer depends on the decision of the application developer.
To perform the transfer, open Settings → Applications and select the app of interest. In the “Storage” section you will see a button "Change" or “Move to SD card”. If the button is inactive (gray), it means that the developer has prohibited installation of the application outside the system partition.
| Application type | Possibility of transfer | Influence for speed | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| System services | Impossible | Critical | Leave in internal memory |
| Heavy games | Partially (cache) | Average | Move cache files |
| Social networks | Possible | Minimum | Feel free to transfer |
| Messengers | Depends on the version | High with a slow card | Only a fast UHS card |
It is worth noting that when transferring application to the card, it may take 1-2 seconds longer to launch. This is due to the physical speed of reading data from MicroSD, which is usually inferior to the built-in flash memory UFS.
Why can’t some games be transferred completely?
Developers often tie critical game files to the system partition to protect against piracy and ensure stable operation of anti-cheat. Only part of the data that takes up a lot of space is transferred.
Manual management of files and media content
The most secure and universal method of freeing up space is manual transfer of large files. Photos, videos, music and documents take up the lion's share of space, and moving them does not require superuser rights or complex settings.
Use a standard file manager, for example Files by Google or the built-in explorer. Find the folders DCIM (camera photo), Download (downloads) and Telegram/Media. Select the required files, select the “Move” option and specify the memory card as the target directory.
To automate the process, you can configure your smartphone camera to save pictures directly to external storage. Go to the settings of the “Camera” application, find the “Save location” item and switch the checkbox to SD card. This will prevent the internal memory from filling up in the future.
⚠️ Attention: When transferring messenger folders (WhatsApp, Viber) manually, the database structure may be damaged. It is better to use the built-in backup functions within the applications themselves.
Regularly cleaning out the folder Download also helps to maintain order. Application installer files (.apk) after installation are no longer needed and can be deleted without consequences for the system.
Automatic sorting of files by type and age in file managers allows you to quickly find and delete duplicates, saving the user's time.
Using USB drives via OTG
If the memory card slot is missing or occupied by a second SIM card, technology OTG (On-The-Go) comes to the rescue. By connecting a regular USB flash drive through a special adapter, you get access to additional space for storing archived data.
After connecting the flash drive, a message about the new device will appear in the notification shade. Click on it to select the operating mode. To view files, select "Open" and use the file manager to transfer data. The system will mount the drive into a directory /storage/USB.
This method is ideal for creating quick backups before resetting the settings or for watching movies in high definition without loading them into the internal memory. However, you cannot run applications directly from a USB drive using standard means. Android it is forbidden.
adb shell pm get-install-locationAdvanced users can use commands ADB to force changes in the installation priority of applications, but this requires a computer and USB debugging enabled. The command above shows the current location by default (0 - internal, 1 - external, 2 - auto).
Possible problems and solutions
During operation, users may encounter card reading errors or sudden shutdown of the external drive. This is often due to poor contact in the slot or the use of a low-quality adapter OTG.
If the system constantly displays the “SD card is damaged” error, try removing and inserting it again. In the worst case, formatting will be required. Also make sure that the file system of the card is compatible with Android (recommended exFAT for cards larger than 32 GB).
What to do if the card is not detected after reboot?
Try clearing the Storage application cache in the settings developer or check the card on your computer for bad sectors using the h3testw utility.
Sometimes after updating the firmware, the storage settings are reset. In this case, you need to go through the map setup procedure again in the system menu. Do not forget that different versions Android (10, 11, 12, 13, 14) may have differences in the location of menu items.
⚠️ Attention: Smartphone manufacturers may change the memory logic in new software updates. If the described paths do not match, look for similar items in the settings of your specific model.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Can WhatsApp be transferred completely to a memory card?
The application itself cannot be completely transferred, but you can change the location where media files and backups are saved in the settings of the messenger itself. To do this, go to Whatsapp settings → Chats → Chat backup and select saving to Google Drive or locally to an SD card.
Why did the phone start to slow down after transferring applications?
Most likely, you are using a memory card with a low write speed (class 4 or 6). The system tries to read application data from slow media, which creates delays. Solution: replace the card with a high-speed one (class 10, U3) or return the applications to the internal memory.
Will the applications on the card work if I insert it into another phone?
No. If you formatted the card as Internal Storage, it is encrypted with device-specific keys. In another phone, it will not be available and will require formatting, which will delete all data.
How to get all the files back to the internal memory?
Go to Settings → Storage, select the memory card and click "Format as portable storage" (this will delete the data) or use a file manager to manually copy the files back before extracting card.
Does using an SD card affect the speed of the camera?
When shooting video in high resolution (4K), a slow card may not be able to record the data stream, which will lead to recording stopping. For video shooting, it is recommended to use internal memory or cards marked V30 and higher.