Storage space on Android mobile devices is limited, something that can be a challenge for both intensive mobile users and those who simply want to keep their device agile, fast, and trouble-free. Today's smartphones are multifunctional tools, and although storage capacities have grown in recent years, the consumption of digital content and the quality of cameras mean that it never seems enough.
If you've ever run out of internal storage and your phone has prevented you from taking photos, recording videos, downloading apps, or updating the system, you'll know how frustrating it can be. One of the most effective methods to free up memory is Move apps and media files to an SD card. This also allows you to fully utilize your device's potential, avoiding performance issues and prolonging its lifespan.
Why should you move apps and files to the SD card?
The growth in the quality of mobile cameras and the emergence of increasingly complex apps has caused storage to run out faster than ever. Moving apps to the SD card can:
- Free up internal space: Allows you to install new apps and store more files without worrying about the original storage limit.
- Improve overall performance: Less saturated internal storage means less overload for RAM and the processor, boosting system speed.
- Facilitate file management and backups: Using an SD card makes it easier to transfer data between devices or perform regular backups to prevent the loss of important information.
- protect your data: In case of damage or loss of the mobile phone, the data stored on the SD card can be easily recovered by removing the card.
However, there are nuances and limitations to take into account. (For example, not all apps can be moved, and there are differences depending on the Android version and the phone manufacturer, as well as the type and quality of the SD card used.) In this article about the best apps to learn geography from your mobile You can find more tips related to managing files and apps on Android devices.
What type of SD card should you choose for your Android and how to insert it correctly?
The choice of memory card is crucial for the performance of apps and external storage. SD cards are differentiated by capacity, format and speed.:
- SD, SDHC and SDXC: They differ in their maximum capacity. SD covers up to 2GB, SDHC up to 32GB, and SDXC over 32GB (even 1TB).
- MicroSD, MicroSDHC and MicroSDXCThe "Micro" format is the most commonly used format for mobile phones. Before purchasing an SD card, check the maximum supported by your phone in the manufacturer's manual or website.
Classes and speeds:
- Class 2, 4, 6: Minimum speeds of 2, 4 and 6 MB/s respectively.
- 10 Class: Great performance with a minimum of 10 MB/s, ideal for photos and HD video.
- UHS-I, UHS-II, UHS-III: Ultra High Speed (up to 312 MB/s), recommended for 4K videos and fast data transfers.
- Class V and A: Suitable for video recording (V30, V60, V90) or for use with apps (A1, A2), the latter designed to offer good performance in random read/write operations required by applications.
Tips for choosing the best SD card:
- If you're moving apps, choose a card that's Class 10 or A1/A2 to ensure fluidity.
- Check the compatibility and maximum capacity limit supported by your mobile phone.
- Avoid cards from unknown brands, as data loss or slow speeds can cause unexpected application closures.
How to properly insert and mount an SD card on your Android phone
- Please turn off your phone before handling the slot to avoid recognition errors or damage.
- Locate the card tray (it usually shares the same location as the SIM).
- Insert the SD in the direction marked on the tray or casing.
- Turn on your device; Android should detect the card and display a notification to configure it.
- If it's the first time, it's recommended to format it from the phone itself.
Can all apps be moved to the SD card? Limitations and considerations
One of the most important points to keep in mind is that Not all applications can be moved to the SD card. The reasons may be several:
- Critical Functions: Essential apps (system, messaging, Google Play Services, etc.) or pre-installed apps are often blocked to prevent malfunctions.
- Speed Requirements: For apps that require extremely fast access to storage (heavy games, camera apps, etc.), the system may prevent them from being moved, even if you try to do so from Settings or with third-party apps.
- Developer Restrictions: Some apps, for security or functionality reasons, are designed to be installed only on internal storage.
- Manufacturer policy: Depending on the customization layer (Samsung, Xiaomi, Huawei, etc.), not all features may be enabled, even if Android offers them by default.
Step by Step: How to Move Apps to SD Card on Android?
Starting with Android Marshmallow (6.0), Google natively implemented the ability to move installed apps to external storage. The process is simple, but may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer and operating system version:
- Open the app Settings of your mobile.
- Access the section Applications o Apps.
- Select the app you want to move.
- Press on Storage (o Storage and cache).
- If the app allows it, a button will appear Change o Move to SD card. Play it.
- Choose SD card as destination and confirm the operation.
The process will take a few seconds (or minutes if the app is large). During this transfer, the app cannot be used. If the "switch" button is grayed out in the app menu, it is not available for that app.
What happens if I want to reverse the process?
- Just repeat the process and select Internal storage as the destination. The transfer will also be transparent to the user, although they may need to restart the app.
How to move apps to SD card on Android 4.4, 5.0, and 5.1
For older devices, the procedure may vary:
- Make sure you have an SD inserted.
- Accede to Settings> Applications.
- Find the tab On SD card, select the desired app and press Move to SD card.
Some brands like Sony or Samsung may have specific menus under Settings > Apps & notifications > App info and a button CHANGE in the storage section. Consult your phone's manual for detailed steps by manufacturer.
Formatting an SD card as internal storage: When and how to do it?
Since Android 6.0, there is the option to format the SD card as internal storage ("Adoptable Storage"). This way, the internal and SD memory are "merged," and the system automatically manages where to place apps and files:
- Accede to Settings> Storage.
- Click on the SD card.
- Click on the options menu (the three horizontal dots) and select Format as internal o Format as internal storage.
- Notice: All data on the SD card will be erased. Please back up first.
- Confirm the process and, once complete, restart your phone.
Advantages:
- Any app can be easily installed and moved, without any “move to SD” limitations.
- Android manages space intelligently.
Disadvantages:
- The SD card can only be used on that phone until it is reformatted.
- If you remove the SD card to use it on another device, the data may become inaccessible.
- It is essential to use a fast SD card (Class 10, A1/A2 or higher) to prevent your phone from becoming slow.
Alternative Methods: Moving Apps to SD on Non-Native Phones (Root and Third-Party Apps)
On older phones or those with modified versions of Android, the "Move to SD" or "Adoptable Storage" options may not be available. If this is the case, there are alternatives:
- Applications like Link2SD or AppMgr III (App 2 SD): They allow you to transfer applications even with advanced functions but they require root. With root you can partition the SD and link apps or data to the additional partition (usually Ext2, 3, 4).
- Limitations of the root method: Not all phones support it, and it can void your warranty, cause malfunctions, or even render your phone unusable if the steps aren't followed correctly. Furthermore, it's currently not recommended for anyone other than experienced users.
Troubleshooting: Why can't I move apps to the SD card?
Sometimes, no matter how many steps you follow, you may find that the option to move apps does not appear, gives errors or the card is not detectedHere are the possible problems and solutions:
- The app cannot be moved: Not all apps allow this (for security reasons, quick access, etc.). Try a different app or move photos, videos, and files instead of apps.
- Manufacturer has blocked the function: Some brands disable the native feature. You can try third-party apps, although they usually only work with root.
- Card not detected: This could be due to dirt, faulty contacts, or an incompatible format (for example, NTFS or exFAT, which older phones don't support). Clean with a soft cloth and format from the phone if possible.
- Not enough space on SD: Free up space or upgrade to a larger capacity card.
- Defective or counterfeit card: If you experience frequent failures, use a reputable brand and perform speed/authenticity tests from your PC.
How to ensure SD card compatibility?
- Check the format: For cards up to 32GB, use FAT32. For larger cards, use exFAT. You can format it from Settings > Storage.
- Consult your mobile phone manual: Check the maximum compatibility and supported SD type (microSD, microSDHC, microSDXC).
Other ways to free up space on Android without moving apps to SD
In addition to moving apps, there are other techniques to gain internal storage and improve system fluidity:
Manage storage for WhatsApp and messaging apps
- Disable automatic download of photos and videos in WhatsApp and other apps to avoid memory overload.
- Periodically delete received media files or use the option to "Manage storage" in the app to delete what you don't need.
Back up to your computer or the cloud
- Transfer photos, videos, and documents to your computer regularly or use cloud services (Google Drive, Google Photos, Dropbox, etc.). This way, not only will you free up space, but you'll also keep your files safe in case your device is lost or fails.
Uninstall apps you don't use
- Periodically review your installed apps and delete any you haven't used in the last few weeks. We often accumulate games and utilities that we only use once.
Clear the cache of the applications
- En Settings > Storage > AppsClear the cache of apps that generate a lot of temporary data (social networks, browsers, etc.). This can easily free up hundreds of megabytes.
Delete files from the Downloads folder and use cleaning apps
- La app Files by Google and other similar tools can help you locate large files, duplicates, APKs, or old downloads that you no longer need.
Remove native apps (bloatware) if possible
- Some Android skins allow you to uninstall or disable system apps. See our article on how to remove them. bloatware on Android to free up even more space.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving Apps to SD Card
- Do I lose data if I move apps to SD? No, transferring data through system settings will keep your data intact. Formatting the SD card will delete the data stored on it.
- Does moving apps to the SD card affect performance? If you're using a fast card (Class 10, A1/A2), there's usually no noticeable difference. With slower cards, some apps may open and run more slowly.
- Can WhatsApp or other system apps be moved? No, WhatsApp only allows you to change the storage location of photos and videos, but not the app itself. The same goes for most system apps.
- Can I move data between SD and internal storage interchangeably? Yes, as long as the system and the app allow it. For apps adopted for internal storage, management is automatic.
- Can I use the same SD card in another phone? If you formatted it as internal storage, you'll need to reformat it to work on another device.
Thinking about every option Android offers to free up space and extend the life of your phone is the first step toward a better user experience. Whether moving apps to the SD cardWhether you're working on a project, managing files, or using cleaning apps, the important thing is to anticipate storage limits and keep your device optimized. By following the tips in this tutorial, you'll be able to make the most of every corner of your Android phone, reduce the likelihood of errors, and avoid those dreaded "storage full" messages.
