Storage on smartphones can run out fast. With apps, high-res photos, and large video files piling up, freeing up space becomes essential. If your Samsung Galaxy device has an SD card slot, you might think moving apps to the SD card is the solution. This guide explains exactly what is possible today and how to manage your storage effectively.
Understanding the Limits of Moving Apps to SD Card
Modern Samsung phones running Android 6.0 and above (including the latest One UI) come with limitations:
- Apps can’t always be moved: Many apps, especially system and popular third-party apps, don’t support this.
- Samsung doesn’t support Adoptable Storage: Unlike stock Android, Samsung keeps internal and external storage separate.
- Only parts of apps move: Even when allowed, only parts of the app (like cache or media files) move to SD.
Step-by-Step: How to Move Apps to SD Card (If Possible)
Step 1: Check if the App Supports Moving
- Open Settings > Apps.
- Tap on an app.
- Go to Storage.
- If you see a “Change” button under “Storage used,” the app can be moved.
Step 2: Move the App
- Tap “Change” > Select SD Card.
- Tap “Move.”
- Wait for the transfer to finish.
Note: Most apps cannot be moved. Apps that support it may still store core files internally.
Best Alternatives to Free Up Space
Method 1: Move Media Files to SD Card
- Open My Files app.
- Go to Internal Storage > select folders like DCIM, Downloads, or Pictures.
- Long press files > Tap Move > Choose SD card > Tap Move here.
Method 2: Set Camera to Save to SD Card
- Open Camera > Tap Settings.
- Look for Storage Location > Set to SD Card.
Method 3: Use Storage Cleaner
- Go to Settings > Device care > Storage.
- Use tools like:
- Clean now
- Large files, Duplicate files
- Trash
Method 4: Clear Cache and Data
- Open Settings > Apps.
- Select an app > Storage.
- Tap Clear Cache or Clear Data (be cautious, clears app content).
Method 5: Uninstall Unused Apps
- Go to Settings > Apps.
- Sort or scroll through rarely used apps.
- Tap > Uninstall.
Tips When Using an SD Card
- Use High-Speed Cards: Opt for Class 10 or UHS-I (U1/U3) cards for performance.
- Backup Regularly: SD cards can fail unexpectedly.
- Don’t Remove Without Unmounting: Apps stored on the card will break if removed improperly.
- Be Wary of Formatting: Formatting wipes all data—always back up first.
While you can’t fully move most apps to an SD card on Samsung phones, using your SD card for photos, videos, and file storage can drastically improve internal storage space.
