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Android devices are known for their flexibility and customizability. However, many users face the issue of limited internal storage space, which can be frustrating when you are trying to download new apps or updates. This is where moving apps onto the SD card can be useful. It not only frees up your phone’s internal storage, but also allows for easier access to these apps. In this article, we will cover different methods for moving apps onto the SD card in Android devices.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
Before you start moving apps onto the SD card, there are a few things you will need:
– An Android device that runs on Android 4.0 or later
– An SD card with sufficient space
– A file manager app (such as ES File Explorer or Solid Explorer)
– Patience and attention to detail
What Requires Your Focus?
Moving apps onto the SD card involves a bit of technical work, so it’s important to pay close attention to the steps and follow them carefully. You should also be aware that not all apps can be moved to the SD card, as some require access to the phone’s internal memory to function properly. Additionally, some of the methods we discuss may not work on all Android devices, depending on their software version and manufacturer.
Different Methods to Move Apps onto SD Card
Method 1: Moving Apps Through the Android Settings
This method is the most straightforward and can be done directly through your phone’s settings. Here are the steps:
1. Open the Settings app on your Android device.
2. Scroll down and tap on "Apps & notifications" or "Apps" depending on your device.
3. Select the app you want to move to the SD card.
4. Tap on "Storage & cache" or "Storage."
5. Tap on "Change" and choose the external SD card option.
6. Wait for the app to be moved to the SD card.
Pros:
– No need to download third-party apps
– Directly accessible through the settings menu
– Easy to understand and execute
Cons:
– Not all apps can be moved to the SD card
– This method may not work on some Android versions or devices
Method 2: Using the App2SD app
App2SD is a popular app that allows you to move multiple apps onto the SD card at once. Here’s how to do it:
1. Download and install the App2SD app from the Google Play Store.
2. Open the app and grant it permission to access your device’s storage.
3. Tap on "Move to SD card" and select the apps you want to move.
4. Tap on "Move" and wait for the process to complete.
Pros:
– Allows you to move multiple apps at once
– Offers detailed information about each app
– Gives you control over which apps to move
Cons:
– Requires you to download a third-party app
– May not work on some Android versions or devices
Method 3: Using the Link2SD app
Link2SD is another useful app for moving apps to the SD card. In addition to moving apps, it can also create links to the app’s data in the SD card, allowing you to save even more space on your device. Here are the steps:
1. Download and install the Link2SD app from the Google Play Store.
2. Open the app and grant it permission to access your device’s storage.
3. Select the app you want to move and tap on "Create Link" or "Move to SD card."
4. Choose the type of link you want to create (SD card or internal storage).
5. Wait for the process to complete.
Pros:
– Can move apps and their data to the SD card
– Allows you to create links to save more space
– Offers customization options
Cons:
– Requires you to download a third-party app
– May not work on some Android versions or devices
Method 4: Using ADB commands
ADB (Android Debug Bridge) commands can be used to move apps to the SD card via your computer. This method is more advanced and requires knowledge of command-line interface. Here’s how to do it:
1. Install the Android SDK on your computer.
2. Connect your Android device to your computer via USB cable.
3. Open the command prompt on your computer and navigate to the platform-tools folder in the Android SDK.
4. Enter the following command: adb shell pm set-install-location 2
5. Choose the app you want to move to the SD card and enter the following command: adb shell pm set-install-location 2 package_name
6. Wait for the process to complete.
Pros:
– Can move apps that are normally not movable
– Can move multiple apps at once
– Offers greater control over the process
Cons:
– Requires knowledge of command-line interface
– Can be risky if not done correctly
Method 5: Using Rooting
Rooting your Android device gives you complete control over it, including the ability to move almost any app to the SD card. However, rooting your device can void the warranty and potentially cause harm to your device if not done correctly. Here are the steps:
1. Root your Android device using a rooting app or by unlocking the bootloader and flashing a custom recovery.
2. Download and install an app that allows you to move apps to the SD card (such as Link2SD).
3. Open the app and grant it root permissions.
4. Select the app you want to move and tap on "Move" or "Create link."
Pros:
– Allows you to move any app to the SD card
– Gives you complete control over your device
– Offers customization options
Cons:
– Can void your device’s warranty
– Can harm your device if not done correctly
– Requires technical knowledge
Why Can’t I Move Apps to the SD Card?
There are several reasons why you may not be able to move an app to the SD card:
1. The app may be a system app that requires access to the phone’s internal memory to function properly.
2. The app may be locked by the device manufacturer or carrier.
3. The app may be designed to run only on the phone’s internal storage.
To fix this issue, you can try clearing the app’s cache and data, uninstalling unnecessary apps, or using one of the methods mentioned above to force the app to move to the SD card.
Implications and Recommendations
Moving apps to the SD card can be a great way to free up space on your Android device and improve its performance. Here are some recommendations:
1. Regularly clean up your device by uninstalling unnecessary apps, clearing cache and data, and deleting old files.
2. Consider using cloud storage services (such as Google Drive or Dropbox) to store files and data that you don’t frequently access.
3. Be careful when using third-party apps to move apps to the SD card and make sure to read reviews and check compatibility with your device before downloading.
5 FAQs About Moving Apps to the SD Card
Q1: Can I move all apps to the SD card?
A: No, not all apps can be moved to the SD card. Some system apps and apps that require access to the phone’s internal storage may not be movable.
Q2: Is it safe to root my Android device?
A: Rooting your Android device can potentially harm your device or void its warranty. Use caution and make sure to research the process before proceeding.
Q3: Will moving apps to the SD card affect their performance?
A: Moving apps to the SD card may cause them to load slower than if they were stored on the internal storage. However, the impact on performance is generally minimal.
Q4: Can I move apps to the SD card without using third-party apps?
A: Yes, you can move apps to the SD card using the built-in settings menu on your Android device.
Q5: Can I use the SD card to store other types of files besides apps?
A: Yes, you can store photos, music, videos, and other files on the SD card to free up space on your device’s internal storage.
Final Words
Moving apps to the SD card can be a lifesaver for many Android users who struggle with limited internal storage. However, it’s important to use caution and follow the steps carefully when using any of the methods mentioned above. By doing so, you can free up space on your device and improve its overall performance.