Updating the mobile operating system to version Android 13 brought not only visual changes, but also serious adjustments to the security policy. One of the most noticeable changes for advanced users was the hiding of the contents of the system directory Android/obb. Previously open access to cache files of heavy games and applications now requires additional steps, which often confuses those accustomed to the old file system structure.
The problem is that standard file managers, even system ones, no longer display files inside this folder, showing it empty or requiring unclear permissions. This restriction was introduced by Google to protect user data and prevent malicious interference with applications. However, for those who are accustomed to manually managing the cache, transferring data, or installing modified versions of games, access to file system remains critically important.
In this material we will look at proven ways to gain full access to content obb. We will consider both standard methods through system settings, and the use of specialized software that can bypass new restrictions. Understanding these processes will allow you to effectively manage device memory and solve problems with launching demanding mobile projects.
Why do you need access to the OBB folder and what is stored there
Directory obb (Obb - Opaque Binary Blob) is designed to store additional application resources that are not included in the main installation file APK. This allows developers to reduce the size of the initial download from the store by downloading heavy textures, music and videos after installation. Without the correct contents of this folder, many games simply will not start or will produce errors when loading levels.
Users are often faced with the need to manually copy files to this folder when installing games not from Google Play, but from third-party sources. Access is also required to clean up the “garbage” left after deleting long-forgotten applications that did not automatically delete their cache data. In some cases, it is damaged files in OBB directories that cause games to crash.
⚠️ Attention: Incorrectly deleting or moving files inside system folders can lead to applications not working. Always back up important data before making changes to the file structure.
In addition, access to this data is necessary to create complete backups of progress in games that do not support cloud saves. Knowing the exact location of the files, you can save your progress and transfer it to another device or restore it after a factory reset. This is especially true for device owners who often experiment with firmware.
Why is the Android/obb folder empty on Android 13
Starting with version Android 11 and strengthening measures in Android 12 and 13, Google introduced the Scoped Storage mechanism (limited storage). This technology isolates application data from each other and from the user. When you open standard Explorer and see that the folder obb is empty, this does not mean that the files are missing. In fact, they are in place, but the current explorer application is not granted rights to display them. The security system blocks access to the paths for all applications except system processes and those that have received special privileges. This is done to prevent malware from stealing data from other apps or replacing their files. Therefore, when you try to open a folder, you may see a message about missing files or just a blank screen. display.
The security system blocks access to the tracks /Android/data And /Android/obb for all applications except system processes and those that have received special privileges. This is done to prevent malware from stealing data from other apps or replacing their files. Therefore, when you try to open a folder, you may see a message about missing files or just a blank screen.
It is important to understand that this is not a bug, but a security feature. Attempts to “fix” this by simply manipulating access rights through ADB without understanding the essence of the process can lead to unstable operation of the system. However, there are legal ways to gain access using special tools or requesting permission from the system through certain actions.
Technical details of Scoped Storage
The Scoped Storage mechanism separates files into media (photos, videos) and non-media. Access to the latter is strictly regulated. Apps can no longer request access to your entire storage with a single button, as was the case in older versions of Android.
Using dedicated file managers
The easiest and safest way to access hidden files is to use third-party file managers designed with new restrictions in mind. Applications like Files by Google, Solid Explorer or ZArchiver are able to correctly request system permission to access protected directories. When you first launch, they may redirect you to the system menu to confirm your rights.
One of the most popular solutions is to use ZArchiver or MT Manager. These applications, when you try to open a folder Android/obb will bring up a system window with a “Use this document” or “Allow” button. After clicking the button and confirming in the window that appears, access will be opened and you will be able to see, copy and delete files. This is a standard mechanism that does not require root access.
- 📂 ZArchiver —a powerful archiver that does an excellent job of managing files and bypassing access restrictions via the system API.
- 📁 Solid Explorer —a modern two-panel file manager with support for cloud storage and a user-friendly interface.
- 🔧 Files by Google —an official application from Google, which sometimes (but not always) allows you to access these folders depending on the firmware version.
- 📦 MT Manager —an advanced tool for APK editing and file management, popular among modders.
⚠️ Attention: File manager interfaces may vary. If one method does not work, try an alternative application, since smartphone manufacturers (Samsung, Xiaomi, Realme) may implement access restrictions differently.
After installing the selected manager, you need to launch it and follow the path Internal memory → Android → obb. If the folder is empty, the application itself will prompt you to go to settings or open a system dialog box. In the folder selection window, you need to click “Select folder” or “Use this document”, and then confirm the action with the “Allow” button. After this, the contents will become visible.
☑️ Checking access through the file manager
Configuring access through system menus and ADB
For more advanced users who are not helped by standard methods, it is possible to use the debugger bridge Android Debug Bridge (ADB). This method allows you to give applications special permissions that are usually hidden from the average user. However, you should be careful: incorrect use of commands can disrupt the system.
To use this method, you must enable developer mode on your smartphone. To do this you need to go to Settings → About phone and click on the build number seven times. Then in the “For Developers” menu that appears, activate the “USB Debugging” item. After connecting the smartphone to the computer and installing the drivers, you can enter commands to issue rights.
adb shell appops set --uid com.zdevs.zarchiver READ_STORAGE allowThis command is an example of how you can try to expand rights for a specific application. However, Android 13 Google has further limited the capabilities appopsand accessing Android/data often requires the use of special commands or utilities, such as Shizuku in conjunction with file managers. Shizuku allows applications to use system APIs with elevated privileges without obtaining full Root access.
Using the Shizuku combination + a file manager (for example, Material Files) is a modern and secure way to access system folders without having to root the device.
If you are not confident in your actions with the command line, it is better to limit yourself to the methods described in the previous section, or use applications that automatically integrate with Shizuku. This will reduce the risk of accidental damage to system files or violation of the integrity of the operating system.
Comparison of file system access methods
The choice of access method depends on your goals and level of training. For an ordinary user who just needs to upload a cache to play, a third-party file manager will be enough. Developers or modders may require more sophisticated tools. Below is a table comparing the main methods.
| Method | Complexity | Security | Requires a PC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Third-party FM (ZArchiver) | Low | High | No |
| Computer (MTP mode) | Medium | High | Yes |
| ADB commands | High | Medium | Yes |
| root access | Very high | Low | No/Yes |
Using the computer in file transfer mode (MTP) can also give results. Some users note that when connecting a smartphone to a PC via USB and selecting the “File Transfer” mode, the computer sees the contents of the folder obbeven if the phone itself shows it empty. This is due to the fact that the MTP protocol has a higher level of access to the file system than applications inside Android.
Receiving root access gives full control over the device, allowing you to change any files. However, in modern conditions, this often leads to failure of banking applications, reduced security and loss of warranty. Therefore, this method is recommended only for experienced users who understand the risks.
The best balance between convenience and security is the use of specialized file managers that can work through the system API for accessing documents.
Frequent problems and their solutions
Even users may encounter errors when using the right tools. One of the common problems is the inability to copy a file to a folder obb. This could be due to low space or because the application that owns the folder is running and is locking the file. In this case, you need to completely close the application through the menu of running tasks.
Another common situation is that files are copied, but the game says “Loading resources” or crashes. This means that the folder structure is broken. The files must be located strictly in the folder with the name of the game package (for example, com.game.name). If you create a new folder with an error in the name or simply put files in obb, the game will not see them.
- 🚫 Path error — make sure that you have not created unnecessary nesting of folders.
- 🔒 Antivirus blocking — some defenders may block writing to system folders folders.
- 💾 File system —errors on the memory card may prevent recording, try internal memory.
⚠️ Attention: If you are transferring data to a memory card (SD card), make sure it is formatted as internal storage (Adoptable Storage), otherwise access to
Android/obbon it may be completely blocked by the security system.
It is also worth considering that some smartphone manufacturers (for example, Xiaomi with the MIUI/HyperOS shell or Samsung with One UI) can add their own restrictions on top of the standard Android rules. In such cases, system updates may temporarily close previously opened loopholes, requiring you to find new solutions or wait for file manager updates.
What to do if nothing helps?
If none of the methods gives access, your version of Android or firmware may have increased restrictions. In this case, the only option is to use a PC to transfer files or temporarily disable protective functions (not recommended).
Is it possible to delete the OBB folder completely?
Technically, the folder itself cannot be deleted, since it is a system directory. However, you can clear its contents. It is recommended to do this only if you are sure that the files belong to the remote applications. For running games, deleting files from OBB will result in the need to re-download the data.
Why did the files disappear after the Android 13 update?
The files have not disappeared, they are hidden by access restrictions (Scoped Storage). Use the special file managers described in the article to see them again. The data on the disk remains intact.
Do you need root access to access OBB?
In most cases, on Android 13 ROOT is not needed. It is enough to use applications that correctly request permission through the system API (for example, ZArchiver or MT Manager). Root gives more freedom, but is not a prerequisite.
Where is the OBB folder on the memory card?
If you are using an external SD card, the path will be similar: SD card → Android → obb. However, access to it can be even more limited than to internal memory, and often requires connection via a PC or special permissions.
Is it safe to use third-party file managers?
Using popular managers from trusted sources (Google Play) is safe. They ask for standard system permissions. Avoid downloading modified versions of apps from dubious sites to avoid infecting your device.