Do apps run slower after being moved to an SD card?

Often yes, especially larger games. Memory cards have lower read and write speeds than internal flash storage, so load times can increase slightly after you move an app with the Change ➔ Choose SD card ➔ Move steps.

Does moving an app move all of its data too?

Only part of it usually moves. The app itself and most movable data relocate to the card, but some caches or components tied to the system can remain on internal storage even after you confirm the move.

What happens to a moved app if I remove the SD card?

The app becomes unavailable and often shows an error until you reinsert the same card. Removing or swapping the card while apps are stored on it can also cause missing icons until the card is back in the phone.

Can I move an app back to internal storage later?

Yes, repeat the same path under Settings ➔ Apps ➔ Choose an App ➔ Storage ➔ Change, then select internal storage instead of the SD card and confirm with Move.

Samsung

Samsung: Move Apps to an SD Card

Samsung phones install every app to internal storage by default, and that fills up fast once photos, games and updates pile on. If your device has a memory card slot, moving apps off internal storage is often the quickest way to reclaim space without deleting anything you need.

Updated: 07.08.20266 min7 steps

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Samsung

Move Apps to an SD Card auf Samsung

Samsung phones install apps to internal storage by default, along with the data and cache files they create while running. Once that storage fills up, you may notice slower performance, failed downloads, or update errors even though a microSD card is already inserted.

Not every app can be moved. System apps, pre-installed Samsung apps, and apps built with certain frameworks stay locked to internal storage no matter what you try. Widgets, live wallpapers, and some security-related apps are common exceptions too.

To move an eligible app, go to Settings ➔ Apps ➔ Choose an App ➔ Storage. If the app supports it, you will see a Change option there. Tap Change, then Choose SD card, and confirm with Move.

Moving an app relocates its installation files and most of its data to the card, but a few components can stay behind on internal storage. Memory cards also read and write slower than internal flash storage, so heavier games may load a bit slower after the move.

If there is no Change button under Storage for an app, it cannot be moved. In that case, clearing app cache, shifting photos and videos to the card manually, or uninstalling unused apps are the better options.

Frequently asked questions

System apps, several pre-installed Samsung apps, and apps built on certain frameworks are restricted to internal storage. If Settings ➔ Apps ➔ Choose an App ➔ Storage shows no Change button, the app simply does not support moving.

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Android 11 · One UI 3

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Samsung: Move Apps to an SD Card

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