Keeping the phone internal storage far from full is a good practice to give extra space for apps and system files to work efficiently. Deleting unused files is one way you can do it, but you might want as well to transfer those files from the phone to additional storage like a micro SD card.
And if you don’t want to move them every so often, consider starting using the card as the default destination for storing new data.
To store downloaded items, Google Chrome by default will use the phone’s internal storage. But it can be changed to the SD card so every new item will be stored there.
Here’s how to change the download location of Chrome from internal storage to micro SD.
1. Launch Chrome and head to the menu icon.

2. Select Downloads.

3. Click the gear icon on the top.

4. Now tap Download location.

5. Select SD Card and tap Done.

Now, every new download will be stored on the SD card automatically. But if you prefer to choose the download location manually, just enable the Ask where to save files option.

Basically, when a file is about to be downloaded, you will receive a prompt message asking where it should be saved.

Unfortunately, unlike changing a download location on Chrome PC, choosing a specific directory is not yet possible on Chrome mobile. The browser will just automatically create a download folder on the select download location.
Make the Most of Your Phone Storage
Managing your phone’s storage efficiently can significantly enhance its performance and usability. By transferring files to a microSD card and setting it as the default storage location, you can free up internal space for essential apps and system files.
FAQ
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How do I set my microSD card as default storage for downloads?
To set your microSD card as the default download location in Google Chrome, follow these steps:
- Open Chrome and tap the menu icon (three dots).
- Select Downloads.
- Tap the gear icon at the top.
- Choose Download location, then select SD Card and tap Done.
Can I manually choose where to save each download?
Yes, you can enable the “Ask where to save files” option in Chrome’s download settings. This allows you to select a specific location for each file before downloading.
What if my phone doesn’t support microSD cards?
If your phone lacks a microSD card slot, consider using cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox to offload files and free up internal storage.
Why can’t I select a specific folder on my SD card for downloads?
Unlike the PC version of Chrome, the mobile app doesn’t currently allow users to choose specific directories within an SD card. Downloads are automatically saved in a designated folder created by Chrome.
For more tips on optimizing your phone’s storage, explore guides on managing app data, clearing cache, and leveraging cloud solutions.