Owners of Xiaomi Redmi 8 often face a lack of internal memory, especially if the model was purchased with a minimum storage capacity (32 GB). MIUI persistently signals overflow of memory, blocking the installation of new applications. SD-The map in Redmi 8 is selective — many programs (including instant messengers and games) just don't support this option. Link2SD — utility that allows you to link applications to an external drive at the file system level.
However, there are nuances: for full-fledged work Link2SD root rights are required, and the setup process includes creating a separate section on the SD-Without these steps, the transfer will be partial (cache or data only, but not data). APK-In this article we will discuss the unique for Xiaomi Redmi. 8 algorithm: from preparing a memory card to solving typical errors (for example, "Mount script cannot be created" or "Second partition not found"). MIUI 12-14 and bypass manufacturer restrictions.
Why standard SD portability doesn’t work in Redmi 8
Android. 9 (based upon MIUI for Redmi 8) Google has tightened its policy on external drives, and now applications can save data on the device. SD-The map is only in its "sandbox" - folder /Android/data/[package_name], It's a restricted access thing:
- 📱 Only a portion of the apps (usually games) offer the option of "Move to" SD" System utilities, messengers (WhatsApp, Telegram) and most software block this function.
- 🔄 Even if the transfer is available, SD Only user data (e.g. uploaded media files) are moved, but not by the user himself. APK-file.
- 🚫 MIUI further restricts the work of SD: When you connect the card as a “portable drive” (not as internal memory), many functions are disabled.
Link2SD Bypasses these limitations by creating symbolic links between internal memory and SD-But it's a map:
- Break it up SD-two-part (FAT32/exFAT file-and-file ext2/ext3/ext4 for Link2SD).
- Get root access (for example, through Magisk).
- Set up partition mounting when the system is booted.
Requirements and preparations before using Link2SD
Before you start, make sure your Xiaomi Redmi 8 meets the following conditions:
| Component | Requirement | Note |
|---|---|---|
| MIUI version | 11–14 (Android 9–11) | Newer versions may require a kernel rollback |
| SD-map | Class 10 (UHS-I), volume ≥16 GB | Cheap cards often cause mounting errors |
| Root access | Magisk 24+ or SuperSU | Requires unlocking the bootloader (bootloader) |
| Backup | Create a data backup | Application portability can lead to failures |
Critically, unlocking the bootloader on Xiaomi erases all data! If you haven't already obtained root rights, do it in advance. The unlock instructions for Redmi 8 are different from other models - use the official Mi Unlock Tool and link the Mi Account to the device.
⚠️ Attention: If you are using SD-Card as internal memory (option "Format as internal storage" in Android), Link2SD The card needs to be formatted as a portable drive and broken into partitions manually.
Step 1: Breakdown SD-sectional Link2SD
Link2SD requires a separate section on SD-map ext2/ext3/ext4. It should be at least as large as it is. 1–2 GB (recommended) 4–8 GB for comfortable operation. You'll need to break it down:
- 💻 Computer with Windows/Linux root-access smartphone.
- 🛠️ Partitioning software: MiniTool Partition Wizard (Windows), GParted (Linux) or DiskInfo (Android).
- 📁 Backup of data from SD-maps (all data will be deleted!).
Instructions for Windows (MiniTool Partition Wizard):
- Connect. SD-card to the computer through the card reader.
- Start MiniTool Partition Wizard and select yours SD-map.
- Remove all existing sections (right click → Delete).
- Create the first section: File system: FAT32 (or exFAT for cards >32 GB). Size: leave 70-80% of the total (for example, 20 GB from 32 GB). Tag: SDCARD (optional).
- File system: ext4 (recommended) or ext3.
- Size: The remaining space (e.g. 10 GB).
- Tag: link2sd (required!).
- Apply the changes with the Apply button.
- Confirm the transfer and restart the device.
How do I check if the second partition is being installed?
Alternative ways to expand memory without root
If root rights or breakdown are obtained SD-The cards seem complicated, consider alternatives:
- 🔄 Adoptable Storage (SD It formats the card as part of the internal storage, works without root, but requires full formatting of the card. Not all applications support writing to such a drive.
- ☁️ Cloud Storage: Move your media (photos, videos) to Google Drive or Mi Cloud. Use FolderSync to automatically sync.
- 📱 Optimization MIUI: Turn off preloading in Settings → Annexes → Clean up. Freeze unnecessary system applications through ADB.