About storage options

Apps and app data (including photos, videos, and music files) are stored in your phone’s internal storage. Files you download from email or the internet are stored there, too.

You can store photos, videos, and music in internal storage, but for optimal app performance, free up internal storage by using an SD card to store these items. Or, to access your files from anywhere you have an internet connection, store them with a cloud service.

SD card storage

You can store media files on an SD card. Just insert the card and move your files.

Benefits include:

  • Immediate access to your files
  • No internet connection required - does not use cellular data or Wi-Fi
  • More control over privacy
  • Easily move the card and use your media on other devices, including phones, computers, cameras.

Cloud storage

Clouds are great for storing files you want to share and access on the go, like photos, videos, and music.

Benefits include:

  • Access to your files from any computer or mobile device with an internet connection - uses cellular data or Wi-Fi
  • File synchronization - no need to keep track of multiple versions in multiple storage locations
  • Ideal for backups of photos and videos

Cloud storage providers typically offer free storage that can be expanded with a paid subscription once you reach the free-storage limit. Or you can manage your free storage by removing files you no longer need to make space for new ones.

Apps like Drive and Photos let you easily back up media.