How to Force App Installation to External Memory via Developer Options on Android Devices

 

1. Introduction

Running out of internal storage on your Android device can be frustrating, especially when you want to install more apps. While Android typically allows moving some apps to external storage (SD card), not all apps support this feature. Fortunately, there’s a hidden trick—Developer Options—that lets you force apps to install on external memory by default.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

• How to enable Developer Options on different Android devices.
• How to activate the Force Allow Apps on External option.
• Important tips to ensure a smooth experience.

2. What is the Force Allow Apps on External Option?

The Force Allow Apps on External option in Developer Options overrides the default app installation settings. It forces apps to install on external memory (SD card) instead of internal storage, even if the app doesn’t officially support it.

However, keep in mind:

• Some apps may not work correctly if forced onto external storage.
• System apps cannot be moved to external memory.

3. How to Enable Developer Options on Android Devices

Developer Options are hidden by default on all Android devices. Below are the steps to enable them based on your phone brand.

General Method for Most Android Devices:

1. Open Settings: Go to your phone’s Settings.
2. Navigate to About Phone: Scroll down and select About Phone.
3. Find Build Number: Look for Build Number (or Software Information > Build Number).
4. Tap 7 Times: Tap on the Build Number 7 times in quick succession.
5. Enter Your PIN/Password: If prompted, enter your device's PIN or password.
6. Developer Options Enabled: You’ll see a message: "You are now a developer!"

Enable Developer Options on Specific Brands:

• Samsung: Settings > About Phone > Software Information > Tap Build Number 7 times.
• Xiaomi: Settings > About Phone > Tap MIUI Version 7 times.
• OnePlus: Settings > About Phone > Tap Build Number 7 times.
• Oppo/Realme: Settings > About Phone > Version > Tap Build Number 7 times.
• Vivo: Settings > About Phone > Software Version > Tap Build Number 7 times.

Once enabled, Developer Options will appear in the main Settings menu or under System Settings.

4. How to Force App Installation to External Memory via Developer Options

Now that you’ve enabled Developer Options, follow these steps:

1. Open Developer Options:

   • Go to Settings > System > Developer Options (or directly in Settings on some devices).

2. Enable Force Allow Apps on External:

   • Scroll down to find Force Allow Apps on External (or Force Allow Apps to External Storage).
   • Toggle the switch to Enable.

3. Restart Your Device:

   • Restart your phone to ensure the changes take effect.

4. Install or Move Apps to SD Card:

• Install new apps; they will default to the SD card.
• For existing apps, go to Settings > Apps > [App Name] > Storage > Change > SD Card.

5. Verifying App Installation Location

To ensure the app is installed on the SD card:

1. Go to Settings > Apps > [App Name] > Storage.
2. Check if the storage location shows SD Card instead of Internal Storage.

If an app still doesn’t move, it might have hardcoded restrictions preventing external storage use.

6. Things to Keep in Mind When Forcing App Installation to External Storage

• Performance Impact: Apps may load slower when installed on an SD card.
• App Compatibility: Some apps might crash or malfunction if moved.
• SD Card Reliability: Use a high-speed, high-capacity SD card (Class 10 or UHS-1 recommended).
• System Apps: Pre-installed apps cannot be moved to external storage.

7. Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Option Missing in Developer Options: Ensure your Android version supports this feature (Android 6.0+).
• App Not Moving After Enabling: Restart your phone after enabling the setting.
• SD Card Not Detected: Check if your SD card is properly inserted and formatted.

8. Conclusion

Using Force Allow Apps on External in Developer Options is a powerful way to free up internal storage and maximize your SD card usage. While not every app will function perfectly on external storage, this feature offers a great workaround for storage limitations on Android devices.

Ensure you follow the steps carefully and use a reliable SD card for the best results. Happy optimizing!

9. FAQs

1. Can I move all apps to external storage using Developer Options?
No, system apps and some third-party apps may still refuse to move even with this option enabled.

2. Will forcing apps to external storage affect app performance?
Yes, apps may load slightly slower compared to when they are on internal storage.

3. What happens if I remove the SD card with apps installed on it?
Those apps will become inaccessible until the SD card is reinserted.

4. Is it safe to use Developer Options?
Yes, but changing settings without knowledge can cause issues. Always proceed with caution.

5. Can I disable Force Allow Apps on External later?
Yes, simply return to Developer Options and toggle off the setting.

🎥 Watch a Step-by-Step Video Tutorial:

If you prefer a visual guide, here’s an embedded video tutorial showing how to enable “Force Allow Apps on External” in Developer Options and move your apps to external storage:

Follow along with the video to ensure each step is completed correctly!