How to install applications on the memory card Xiaomi Redmi 5A: all ways + problem solving

Xiaomi Redmi 5A is one of the most popular budget smartphones with limited internal memory (16 GB in the basic version). Even after cleaning the cache and removing unnecessary files, users face a lack of space for new applications. The solution seems obvious: transfer programs to a microSD card. But in Redmi 5A, this feature does not work as well as in other Android devices.

In this article, we will discuss all possible ways to install applications on the SD-map 5A, including official settings MIUI, roundabout ADB You'll also learn why some apps can't be ported, how to choose the right memory card for maximum performance, and what to do if the system gives an error "Not enough memory».

Why Xiaomi Redmi is in the works 5A You can't just transfer applications to the SD-map?

Unlike smartphones on “pure” Android, Xiaomi Redmi 5A runs on the shell MIUI, which blocks the standard function of porting applications.

• 🔒 Security policy MIUI: Xiaomi restricts recording on external drives to prevent malware installation.
• 📱 Android Architecture 7.1/8.1: In these versions, Google has tightened the rules for working with the SD-card, allowing full transfer only for "adopted" drives.
• 💾 Technical limitations: Not all applications support external memory (e.g., instant messengers or online games).

In addition, Redmi 5A does not have the option “Format as internal memory” for microSD – a feature that in other smartphones allows you to use the card as part of the main storage.This means that the standard port through Settings → Applications will only be available for a limited list of programs.

⚠️ Note: If you have purchased a Redmi 5A with firmware from a third-party manufacturer (e.g. Global) ROM In the case of unofficial assembly, some settings may differ. SD-map-check the version MIUI In Settings → The phone.

What type of memory card is suitable for Xiaomi Redmi 5A?

Not all microSDs will work with Redmi 5A. It is recommended to:

Important: Redmi 5A supports cards up to 256GB, but for porting applications it is better to choose a model with a high write speed (for example, SanDisk Ultra A1). Class A1 or A2 cards are optimized for running programs and reduce lags.

Before buying, check compatibility:

1. Insert the card into the slot (hybrid, combined with SIM2).
2. Go to Settings. → Warehouse.
3. If the map is defined, but does not offer formatting options, it is suitable.

Method 1: Transfer applications through standard MIUI settings

This method only works for a fraction of the applications that support installation on an external drive.

1. Open Settings → Applications → Application Management.
2. Select the app you want (like Facebook or Spotify).
3. Click Warehouse → Change → Memory Map.
4. Confirm the transfer and wait until it is completed (may take a few minutes).

Limitations of the method:

• 🚫 Not all apps have an “Change” option (such as WhatsApp or Google Play Store).
• 🔄 After the update, the application can automatically return to internal memory.
• ⚠️ Some programs are slower or have errors after transfer.

⚠️ Warning: If the application stopped opening after the transfer, try clearing its cache in Settings → Annexes → [Name of name] → Clear the cache. If that doesn't work, put the program back in your internal memory.

Method 2: Using ADB for Forced Transfer (for Advanced)

If the standard method does not work, you can use Android Debug Bridge (ADB) — a debugging tool that allows you to manually specify to the system which applications should be stored on the SD-This method requires a connection to a PC.

Step-by-step:

1. Download and install ADB Tools on your computer.
2. Turn on Developer Mode on Redmi 5A: Go to Settings → About Phone. Click 7 times on MIUI until the notification “You’ve become a developer” appears.

USB debugging

Settings → Additional → For Developers

adb shell pm set-install-location 2

This command forces the system to default to install applications on SD-map.

adb shell pm move-package com.example.app /sdcard

(Replace com.example.app with the batch name of the app, such as com.facebook.katana for Facebook).

To find the batch name of the application, use the command:

adb shell pm list packages | grep "appendix name"

⚠️ Note: Not all applications work properly after forced porting through ADB. For example, Google Play Services or system utilities may start to give out errors!

Method 3: Forced Formatting SD-Cards as internal memory (risky method)

In some of Redmi's firmware 5A can circumvent limitations MIUI, editing the system file vold.fstab. This method requires root rights and can lead to unstable operation of the phone, but allows you to use the system file. SD-map as part of the main storage.

Instructions:

1. Get root access (for example, via Magisk or SuperSU).
2. Install a file manager with root support (such as Root Explorer).
3. Move to the /system/etc/vold.fstab and find a line with dev_mount sdcard.
4. Replace the auto setting with force_adoptable.
5. Save the file, restart the phone and format SD-Card as internal memory in Settings → Warehouse.

Warnings:

• 🔧 After this method SD-The card will be encrypted and will not be read on other devices.
• 📉 Phone performance may fall if memory card is slow.
• 🚨 Incorrect editing of system files can lead to a “brick” (breakdown) of the device.

adb pull /system/etc/vold.fstab

Method 4: Using third-party applications for portability

If previous methods didn't work, you can use Google Play utilities that automate portability. The best options for Redmi 5A are:

• 📱 AppMgr III (App 2 SD): Shows you which apps you can migrate, and it does it in one click.
• 🔄 Link2SD: Creates symbolic links to allow the system to be fooled. Requires root rights.
• 📂 Files by Google: Helps clear cache and will offer to move supported apps.

Example of AppMgr III:

1. Install the app from the Play Store.
2. Open it and give access to the storage.
3. In the Movable section, mark the portability apps.
4. Press Move to SD card and wait until it is completed.

Note that even with these tools, not all programs can be ported, such as Instagram or Banking apps often block this feature for security reasons.

💡

The utilities side can't get around the limitations of Android at the kernel level; they only automate what the system already allows.

Frequent mistakes and their solutions

When transferring applications to SD-map 5A And users are faced with typical problems. Here's how to solve them:

If none of these methods worked, consider alternative options:

• 🗑️ Regularly clean the app cache in Settings → Warehouse → Clean up.
• ☁️ Use Google Drive (Mi Cloud) for backups.
• 📲 Remove unused apps or replace them with lightweight versions (e.g. Facebook Lite).

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions