Related
Hi everyone,
I was just wondering if there still is no way of moving the app data to the external sd card?
I am especially interested in the games data, because i've got tons of games, and obviously cannot play all of them because of the storage issue.
I know about the gl to sd app, but I was wondering if there is another way of doing this, as after using this app, you need to launch the game from the app.
Also is there a beta version of some sort of the app2sd app that might work on the S3?
Thanks!
yeah
dont have any way to move app to external card?
Here you go: [TOOL] DirectoryBind - move data to external_sd (GameLoft, Shadowgun etc.) ROOT req.
Runs very well with my S3 and the 64GB sd-card. You are able to move every directory you want to the external sd-card and mount it to the internal sd-card.
- I just do not use the "Transfer files from target to data" and have moved the files manual by myself before I make a directory bind.
- At second I have to activate "Alternate dbase mgmt" and "Persistent service" (under preferences) to have the bindings after a reboot.
- you can make a backup of your bindings e.g. if you want to flash a new rom (under "options" - "backup database")
I use the version 0.2.0o
hurray said:
Here you go: [TOOL] DirectoryBind - move data to external_sd (GameLoft, Shadowgun etc.) ROOT req.
Runs very well with my S3 and the 64GB sd-card. You are able to move every directory you want to the external sd-card and mount it to the internal sd-card.
- I just do not use the "Transfer files from target to data" and have moved the files manual by myself before I make a directory bind.
- At second I have to activate "Alternate dbase mgmt" and "Persistent service" (under preferences) to have the bindings after a reboot.
- you can make a backup of your bindings e.g. if you want to flash a new rom (under "options" - "backup database")
I use the version 0.2.0o
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm trying to make this thing work, but not really succeeding; here's what I did:
> First time I tried one game by using the "Transfer files from target to data":
- I long tapped the first field, the source, and selected an empty folder on the external sd card
- I then long pressed the second field, the target, and selected the folder on the sdcard containing the game data
- Then ticked the "Transfer files from target to data" option and taped the Add button; then waited for the operation to complete
- Afterwards, runed the game, but it prompted me to download the data.
> After this method failing, I tried to transfer the files manually, with another game:
- Created a new folder on the external card and moved the game data manually there
- In the app, I selected the target and the source directory respectively, left the "Transfer files from target to data" option un-ticked and taped the Add button; waited for the operation to complete again
- Then I runed the other game and the same problem.
Please note that I ticked the "Bind on boot", "Alternate dbase mgmt" and the "Persistent service" options in the app preferences and tried restarting the phone and checked the games again, with no luck.
Could someone please point the mistake in what I did?
Thanks!
EDIT: nevermind, I did not taped the icon before the bind so it will turn green.
Now it works!
weepeey!
Thanks for that!
this program can do that too without root, but it's only for gameloft games
http://www.filestube.com/6osJgxhiKD...ch-APK-for-Samsung-by-Duero-include-Java.html
b0gd4n said:
Hi everyone,
I was just wondering if there still is no way of moving the app data to the external sd card?
I am especially interested in the games data, because i've got tons of games, and obviously cannot play all of them because of the storage issue.
I know about the gl to sd app, but I was wondering if there is another way of doing this, as after using this app, you need to launch the game from the app.
Also is there a beta version of some sort of the app2sd app that might work on the S3?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If u r rooted then i highly recommend using "gl to sd" from play store n thr great thing is that it is free. I myself use this n this works for all games... provided that u r rooted... worth having a go
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2
aneeqkhan said:
If u r rooted then i highly recommend using "gl to sd" from play store n thr great thing is that it is free. I myself use this n this works for all games... provided that u r rooted... worth having a go
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I used that, but it is really annoying that you have to launch the game from within gl to sd.
The Directory Bind app works very well, and you can set the bind at boot so no worries about having to set everything up every time.
Thanks anyway!
Try "super mount" from lidroid.u can find it in market.
zodiaxe66 said:
Try "super mount" from lidroid.u can find it in market.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Could you tell me how to use it ?
On google play it says that i9300 is supported.
I created a new dir on extSd: "lidroid". After starting app, and hitting "mount SD card" it says Mount error
Does it require root ?
i tried using app2sd pro to transfer some to my external sd, but when i used it, the transfer button is no where to be found. any idea??? btw, my s3 is already rooted
reyes_todd22 said:
i tried using app2sd pro to transfer some to my external sd, but when i used it, the transfer button is no where to be found. any idea??? btw, my s3 is already rooted
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Rooting does not bring back the apps 2 sd function. I recommend directory bind, mentioned earlier
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2
https://play.google.com/store/apps/...SwxLDIxMiwiaXQuY3JvY2Npby5zd2l0Y2htZW1vcnkiXQ..
Sent from my GT-I9300 using xda premium
I have just installed and tested DirectoryBind on my S3, I actually transferred GTA3 data files from the internal to my external SD, works fine, rebooted my mobile and tested the game again, worked fine too. Very happy with this app...
I think that it is a little bit uncomfortable to launch apps from GL to SD(root), however, the developer is working very hard on the app which is great for our SGS3, recently we got an update for 64 SD cards and misc, i wil put my prayers on this man for having a completely app that resolves the anoying emulated storage for our loved SGS3 :fingers-crossed:
for me, this is the best.
After trying multiple search terms, I can't seem to find what I want.
Is there a PC app that would allow me to view the entire root file structure on a PC and maybe transfer files to a folder on the PC? In other words, copy the entire internal SD to a folder on PC.
This is for my old S4 that has a broken screen and I can still see this device on my Win 7 pro PC, but I am looking for something that works like root explorer does on the device, but for the PC.
re: window explorer type app to control the phone.
djcmn said:
After trying multiple search terms, I can't seem to find what I want.
Is there a PC app that would allow me to view the entire root file structure on a PC and maybe transfer files to a folder on the PC? In other words, copy the entire internal SD to a folder on PC.
This is for my old S4 that has a broken screen and I can still see this device on my Win 7 pro PC, but I am looking for something that works like root explorer does on the device, but for the PC.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here is just the thing for you, it's called "Android Commander" and it does everything,
looks like a windows explorer, installs in windows, it installs apps, flashes zip files,
does adb automatically and you do not need to type anything in a terminal window,
drag & drops just like windows, cleans cache, sets permissions, mount/unmount and
just about anything else you can think of.
With this app there's hardly a reason why you would have to do anything in recovery mode.
It also has built-in boot to recovery, download mode, power off phone and reboot.
It's fully compatible with all models android phones and it's really easy to use, self-explanitory.
It can connect using USB or via WiFi. (usb is best)
Check it out, here is the direct download link for it:
https://docs.google.com/uc?id=0B44Nx1hrRITWOVczc0FzZEt6OFk&export=download
Good luck!
Wifi File Explorer is a good one, too.
Sent from my SGH-M919 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Misterjunky said:
Here is just the thing for you, it's called "Android Commander" and it does everything,
looks like a windows explorer, installs in windows, it installs apps, flashes zip files,
does adb automatically and you do not need to type anything in a terminal window,
drag & drops just like windows, cleans cache, sets permissions, mount/unmount and
just about anything else you can think of.
With this app there's hardly a reason why you would have to do anything in recovery mode.
It also has built-in boot to recovery, download mode, power off phone and reboot.
It's fully compatible with all models android phones and it's really easy to use, self-explanitory.
It can connect using USB or via WiFi. (usb is best)
Check it out, here is the direct download link for it:
https://docs.google.com/uc?id=0B44Nx1hrRITWOVczc0FzZEt6OFk&export=download
Good luck!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
YES! Thank you very much! Exactly what I was after! Wish I could hit that "Thanks" button more than once.
EDIT: I will keep trying but commander is not listing the phone. Not sure if I had busybox installed on the device.
EDIT 2: Didn't have much time yesterday but I still cannot get this program to recognize the phone with broken LCD, nor my new one but both show up in Win 7 professional just fine. This is more curiosity now as I ordered the OEM Samsung M919 T-Mobile Galaxy S4 LCD Screen Digitizer Touch Panel Frame. Wasn't cheap at $194 USD but I can fix the old device in under 30 minutes when it arrives.
Android_Monsters said:
Wifi File Explorer is a good one, too.
Sent from my SGH-M919 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the response but I had to go with the other suggestion because I cannot install this app on a phone with a broken screen.
Hi !
This is my first entry into smartp/phone tablet world.
So far im enjoying it very much, what i diddnt know is that having an external sd card and moving data to it would be such a hassle in certain ways.
I rooted the gpad, tried gl to sd and folder mount but both cant seem to move most of my games (mayby only 18 from my 50ish games)
When i dig in the system memory, most of the games cant be found in the data or obb folders.
They are installed of course, can be played show up in settings/apps and with other programs like titanium backup.
Why dont they show up ?
why are they not in the same folder as the other games ?
How can i get to move those games as well ?
I have been looking on the internet so hard to find awnsers, im actually a bit bummed out by all of this and its taking a way from the fun factor of having this otherwise great device.
If theres no way around this im leaning for a ipad air/pro or whatever is out in a year with 128 gb with a wireless hd with 1 tb.
But there must be something im missing right ?!
Please help me, i would be truly gratefull.
Greetings
Will this help in any way ?
''basically Android is not accessing the proper "name" of the external card and you just need to add one line to fix permissions.''
http://www.androidauthority.com/galaxy-s4-gpe-android-4-3-sd-card-fix-254960/
I would double check foldermount. I personally use this and there has not been a single game that I could not move to my external SD card. You need to ensure you are looking at the correct folders for the game. One item that I also use is Link2SD, however not in the manner you would expect. Link2SD primarly moves the app and not the data files. Additionally it requires separate partition. For me I found it a little of a pain to have to create a separate partition as well as most of the apps/games were small, thus really wanted the data files moved. Thus no longer use Link2SD to worry about the apps. However, I do still use it just to identify the path of the files associated with the specific game or app. Those are then the files I target to move with Foldermount. Again, to-date I have not found an app or game that I could not move to my external card. I have over 30 games running directly off the external SD card. I would take a deeper look at Foldermount. Post up screenshots or paths of games that you may be having a problem with.
---------- Post added at 07:42 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:41 PM ----------
riel88 said:
Will this help in any way ?
''basically Android is not accessing the proper "name" of the external card and you just need to add one line to fix permissions.''
http://www.androidauthority.com/galaxy-s4-gpe-android-4-3-sd-card-fix-254960/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you have the LG V500 or the LG Google Play Edition of the GPad?
You say most of your games dont have a data and obbb folder...which means their data in only loated in the form of apk and library inside the /data/data folder...
Hence...if u make a partition on ur external sd card...you might be able to link the apps and save up on space.
Sent from my GT-S7562 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
List up a few games that you can't seem to move to see if we by chance have them and can compare.
cbb77 said:
I would double check foldermount. I personally use this and there has not been a single game that I could not move to my external SD card. You need to ensure you are looking at the correct folders for the game. One item that I also use is Link2SD, however not in the manner you would expect. Link2SD primarly moves the app and not the data files. Additionally it requires separate partition. For me I found it a little of a pain to have to create a separate partition as well as most of the apps/games were small, thus really wanted the data files moved. Thus no longer use Link2SD to worry about the apps. However, I do still use it just to identify the path of the files associated with the specific game or app. Those are then the files I target to move with Foldermount. Again, to-date I have not found an app or game that I could not move to my external card. I have over 30 games running directly off the external SD card. I would take a deeper look at Foldermount. Post up screenshots or paths of games that you may be having a problem with.
---------- Post added at 07:42 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:41 PM ----------
Do you have the LG V500 or the LG Google Play Edition of the GPad?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
------------------------
First of all thank you so much for taking interest and replying !
I have the normal gpad v500.
Well this is the thing, i did a factory reset this morning thinking i want to start with a clean slate to see if it would help regarding moving the apps.
So i did the factory reset, redownloaded all my payed and free game apps. i think all in all its around 50 of the best games i could find.
They all can be played, they all show up in the settings/app menu (all is well) AND the folder mount apps analyzer (i mention this because you know this program) BUT ! most of the games have no size value = zero bytes behind it.
when i click on them in the app analyzer in foldermount the menu says '' ''game name'' ''data 0b'' ''obb 0b'' ''folder is empty already bound or does not exist.
Also, when i go into my android system memory (android/ sd card0 or emulated) i cannot find most of my games,
i on purpose redownloaded all the games i 1 go to see it they all go to the same map, but apparently they dont !
its like they are being put in a different folder ? i wish the settings/app program could show me where the data is installed because the games are all fully functional.
It just boggles my mind.
Game list :
movable : magic rampage, shark evolution, dungeon hunter 4, dead trigger, deadzoneunocorn 2, cytus, eyelord waking mars, god of blades, unit9 decro, combo crew, can knockdown,flashout.
non movable and not showing in my folders but so in app analyzer of folder mount but with 0bytes :
bit dungeon,clear vision3,kickoutpolitician,ghostsniper,tribloos,nuttyfluffies,littlegalaxy,berzerk ball,quadropus,towwelflight,asterix,kingts free,stickman downhill, 10000000, plants vs zombies2, banana kong, dungeon raid, overlive, badland,freezecollosatron,jetpackjoyride,fist of awesome,simply rockets,nimble quest,bloodbrothers, motor world car factory,earn to die, punch quest, rayman jubngle run, the sandbox, angry birs,star command, tiny deathstar ..... man the list goes on and on !
singhshantanu1996 said:
You say most of your games dont have a data and obbb folder...which means their data in only loated in the form of apk and library inside the /data/data folder...
Hence...if u make a partition on ur external sd card...you might be able to link the apps and save up on space.
Sent from my GT-S7562 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
----------------------------
Thank you for posting and helping me on my way !
I downloaded links 2 sd on reccomendation of the other very helpfull forum friend, this is very helpfull because now i can see the location of the files!
They show like you said they are located in the data/data folder as apk files.
Okay so what now. make partitions - shall i do this with links 2 sd ? and how do i go from there ?
and if the games need updates can they still do it from the partitioned sd card ?
will they still need to be mounted ? can i do this with folder mount ?
i will stop asking questions regarding things far away, what should be my next step ?
Thank you all so much !
Sorry bout my strange english its not my first language
riel88 said:
------------------------
First of all thank you so much for taking interest and replying !
I have the normal gpad v500.
Well this is the thing, i did a factory reset this morning thinking i want to start with a clean slate to see if it would help regarding moving the apps.
So i did the factory reset, redownloaded all my payed and free game apps. i think all in all its around 50 of the best games i could find.
They all can be played, they all show up in the settings/app menu (all is well) AND the folder mount apps analyzer (i mention this because you know this program) BUT ! most of the games have no size value = zero bytes behind it.
when i click on them in the app analyzer in foldermount the menu says '' ''game name'' ''data 0b'' ''obb 0b'' ''folder is empty already bound or does not exist.
Also, when i go into my android system memory (android/ sd card0 or emulated) i cannot find most of my games,
i on purpose redownloaded all the games i 1 go to see it they all go to the same map, but apparently they dont !
its like they are being put in a different folder ? i wish the settings/app program could show me where the data is installed because the games are all fully functional.
It just boggles my mind.
Game list :
movable : magic rampage, shark evolution, dungeon hunter 4, dead trigger, deadzoneunocorn 2, cytus, eyelord waking mars, god of blades, unit9 decro, combo crew, can knockdown,flashout.
non movable and not showing in my folders but so in app analyzer of folder mount but with 0bytes :
bit dungeon,clear vision3,kickoutpolitician,ghostsniper,tribloos,nuttyfluffies,littlegalaxy,berzerk ball,quadropus,towwelflight,asterix,kingts free,stickman downhill, 10000000, plants vs zombies2, banana kong, dungeon raid, overlive, badland,freezecollosatron,jetpackjoyride,fist of awesome,simply rockets,nimble quest,bloodbrothers, motor world car factory,earn to die, punch quest, rayman jubngle run, the sandbox, angry birs,star command, tiny deathstar ..... man the list goes on and on !
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok, first thing is I think you need to check to see if you are still rooted. I mention this as I had also done a factory reset a while back and lost root. Didn't believe it but sure enough I did. Download "Root Checker" from the play store to confirm. You may need to reroot the G Pad again.
This will probably fix FolderMount as it requires root and probably explains why it can't report out correct. Also I thank you. I have been using FolderMount for some time now and never knew of that App Analyzer function. As mentioned, I used Link2SD to determine the path of the files and then created the pairs manually. Thus you just taught me something :good: Nice to see this feature in the app.
Also not sure you are looking at the right location manually either. Use ES File Explorer or Root Explorer to browse the system folders. Then check this path:
/sdcard/Android/obb
you should see some game folders here with data in it. Again, you may not be rooted or using a file browser that allows you to look at the root directory structure. Give this a whirl and report back.
cbb77 said:
Ok, first thing is I think you need to check to see if you are still rooted. I mention this as I had also done a factory reset a while back and lost root. Didn't believe it but sure enough I did. Download "Root Checker" from the play store to confirm. You may need to reroot the G Pad again.
This will probably fix FolderMount as it requires root and probably explains why it can't report out correct. Also I thank you. I have been using FolderMount for some time now and never knew of that App Analyzer function. As mentioned, I used Link2SD to determine the path of the files and then created the pairs manually. Thus you just taught me something :good: Nice to see this feature in the app.
Also not sure you are looking at the right location manually either. Use ES File Explorer or Root Explorer to browse the system folders. Then check this path:
/sdcard/Android/obb
you should see some game folders here with data in it. Again, you may not be rooted or using a file browser that allows you to look at the root directory structure. Give this a whirl and report back.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
-----------------
Hi !
I did root checker : and yeah im still rooted !
i was looking in the right folder though - in my gpad there are 3 sd card options . 1 is the external this is where i have some comics on and the games that did move.
But on the gpad internal memory it has sdcard0 and emulated ( this one has all the same stuff as the sdcard0 has)
sdcard0/android/obb has no items in it , the data folder does. but not the games im missing. only the games that could be moved where in this folder.
all the games that could not be moves are in apk form .
i found this folder now with es file explorer with root file viewing option enabled.
So apparently i must convert these apk files to my sd card, how do i do this ?
riel88 said:
-----------------
Hi !
I did root checker : and yeah im still rooted !
i was looking in the right folder though - in my gpad there are 3 sd card options . 1 is the external this is where i have some comics on and the games that did move.
But on the gpad internal memory it has sdcard0 and emulated ( this one has all the same stuff as the sdcard0 has)
sdcard0/android/obb has no items in it , the data folder does. but not the games im missing. only the games that could be moved where in this folder.
all the games that could not be moves are in apk form .
i found this folder now with es file explorer with root file viewing option enabled.
So apparently i must convert these apk files to my sd card, how do i do this ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok. Surprised that all your games don't have obb data but that is indeed possible. In any case, the only way that I am familiar with moving apk files is with an app like Link2SD. However for that to work you need to partition a section of your external SD card for it. Check the FAQs on the app as they will guide you on how to do this. For me, my main concerns / games have been large data files in obb directory. Thus that is what I have concentrated on.
Hi all
I have an issue with my newly purchased aftv 4k
I moved from the AFTV1 where I could backup all my addons etc to a USB stick. On the new AFTV2, I can't seem to backup at all.
I've read this is because of the new permissions in lollipop but I also read that upgrading to jarvis is supposed to fix this. Can anyone help? Or tell me what I should be doing?
Thanks
czar.nik said:
Hi all
I have an issue with my newly purchased aftv 4k
I moved from the AFTV1 where I could backup all my addons etc to a USB stick. On the new AFTV2, I can't seem to backup at all.
I've read this is because of the new permissions in lollipop but I also read that upgrading to jarvis is supposed to fix this. Can anyone help? Or tell me what I should be doing?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've also noticed this too, was fine on 5.0.4 & kodi 15.2
Yeah my one was fine on my aftv1. Don't suppose anyone has found any solutions to this?
I have found a workaround but it's very very clunky
czar.nik said:
Yeah my one was fine on my aftv1. Don't suppose anyone has found any solutions to this?
I have found a workaround but it's very very clunky
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Like what? What have you done to do that?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/fire-tv/help/write-to-sd-card-fire-tv-t3220730
Jarvis does?
I was just looking for information on if there was an update to Kodi that was able to request/verify write permissions to any directory on external storage and I didn't find anything. I see on here a couple people saying that Jarvis update allows you to write to external (SD/USB) storage, but I don't see any official writeup about this new functionality. Anyone have a source for that info?
cdlenfert said:
I was just looking for information on if there was an update to Kodi that was able to request/verify write permissions to any directory on external storage and I didn't find anything. I see on here a couple people saying that Jarvis update allows you to write to external (SD/USB) storage, but I don't see any official writeup about this new functionality. Anyone have a source for that info?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Still struggling with this. I Have 5.05 (lollipop) with Kodi 16.0 (official) on my non-rooted AFT1 (Firestarter). I tried http://forum.xda-developers.com/fire...re-tv-t3220730 but had no success. I can however change permissions through ES file explorer and read/write. Is anyone else struggling with this ? I can of course map to a networked drive (USB to Airport extreme). Can not get much info from KODI forum. Any suggestions ?
Cheers
nuggyblake said:
Still struggling with this. I Have 5.05 (lollipop) with Kodi 16.0 (official) on my non-rooted AFT1 (Firestarter). I tried http://forum.xda-developers.com/fire...re-tv-t3220730 but had no success. I can however change permissions through ES file explorer and read/write. Is anyone else struggling with this ? I can of course map to a networked drive (USB to Airport extreme). Can not get much info from KODI forum. Any suggestions ?
Cheers
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have a Fire TV with a 128GB Micro SD card installed. I followed the link you mentioned, followed the instructions to the letter and it created a folder for me at that exact path on the Micro SD card. called "files." Inside this folder, I was able to create my own sub folder called what I wanted it to be called (created this folder directly from kodi) and then used the "Add Source" option in the file manager and in the videos section for quick access.
(Running Jarvis 16.0 )
Quick update: downloaded a tv show from Exodus, and it worked fine.
joebuddy78 said:
I have a Fire TV with a 128GB Micro SD card installed. I followed the link you mentioned, followed the instructions to the letter and it created a folder for me at that exact path on the Micro SD card. called "files." Inside this folder, I was able to create my own sub folder called what I wanted it to be called (created this folder directly from kodi) and then used the "Add Source" option in the file manager and in the videos section for quick access.
(Running Jarvis 16.0 )
Quick update: downloaded a tv show from Exodus, and it worked fine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you give me those instructions? The link is dead I would also like to try this.
Sent from my SM-G900F using Tapatalk
joebuddy78 said:
I have a Fire TV with a 128GB Micro SD card installed. I followed the link you mentioned, followed the instructions to the letter and it created a folder for me at that exact path on the Micro SD card. called "files." Inside this folder, I was able to create my own sub folder called what I wanted it to be called (created this folder directly from kodi) and then used the "Add Source" option in the file manager and in the videos section for quick access.
(Running Jarvis 16.0 )
Quick update: downloaded a tv show from Exodus, and it worked fine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did the same, but had no success. I am using an AFTv 1st gen, which does NOT have the micro SD card, but it should not make a difference. Let me go back and re-do. I am using adbfire Shell. Same instructions are here (from guy who wrote adbfire I believe)
http://forum.xda-developers.com/fire-tv/help/write-to-sd-card-fire-tv-t3220730
Ill let you know if I get it working as I know Im not the only "idiot" LOL:laugh:
Update: I got it - Key is to setup the "sandbox" area as a source, which creates an identical drive to the USB drive, but with the path setup.
deanr1977 said:
Can you give me those instructions? The link is dead I would also like to try this.
Sent from my SM-G900F using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://forum.xda-developers.com/fire-tv/help/write-to-sd-card-fire-tv-t3220730 (originally posted by czar.nik earlier in the thread. All credit for the link should go to him.
Nuggy, glad you got it sorted
If you use Plex and Plex Media Server on your Nvidia Shield Android TV, as your library grows, you'll soon learn that Plex Media Server can eat up a lot of that fast, precious internal storage.
Please note the current limitation of Plex Media Server for Android:
Note: The server's data directory will always be placed on the original internal storage, even if you expand it with a USB drive or microSD card.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I ran into this problem and spent days trying to figure out how to set the location of the metadata database to the external (adopted) storage. Unfortunately, Plex doesn't give Android users this option like they do for Windows users. Maybe in the future? Maybe if enough of us make a stink on the interwebs?
If you can't wait that long, here's a guide on how to install Plex Media Server directly to your external storage, be it Micro SD or USB Flash Drive. Just make sure your storage media is SUPER FAST. So, it's probably best to go with the fastest USB 3.0 Flash or SSD drive you can find.
IT IS CRITICAL TO DO THESE STEPS IN ORDER:
Root the Nvidia Shield 16GB Nougat (2015)
Insert Micro SD card or USB Flash drive (make sure it's fast) and adopt the storage.
Install ES File Explorer and use its Root Explorer or use ADB command line:
Code:
adb uninstall <package_name>
to remove the Plex Media Server app. Reboot and verify that it's truly removed.
Enable Developer Options
Install Plex Media Server from Google Play. Yes, this will install it in the Internal Shared Storage, but it won't be in the /System/ folder.
Go to: Settings > Developer options > Force allow apps on external (4th from the bottom)
Go to: Settings > Apps > Storage Used and move Plex Media Server to the external storage.
Reboot the Shield
*Start Plex, initiate Plex Media Server, do not build default libraries, and it should work
Reboot the Shield
Use the Plex web client to create your libraries
Enjoy!!
*Whenever you restart the Nvidia Shield, launch Plex using the Plex Media Server shortcut in SETTINGS > APPS because you have to wait 1-3 seconds for your Micro SD or USB 3.0 Flash Drive to initialize, so this makes sure the PMS is running before Plex is opened.
Thank you so much for this guide.
Damn son, You literally just did the impossible!!! People have been trying to achieve this since Plex came to Shield Tv. Over 9000 thanks to you for getting this done & for posting a guide!!!
I got this to work, But had massive trouble trying to remove PMS with both ES File Explorer & ADB. After a hour or 2, I was finally able to remove PMS with Titanium Backup Pro successfully. I've got as far as setting my libraries up now & it all apiers to be on my 3.0 SSD
I can't find the folder to place the channel bundles. Did the folder structure change from the plex server that is installed as a system app?
liqianghua said:
I can't find the folder to place the channel bundles. Did the folder structure change from the plex server that is installed as a system app?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Im looking to install a few plugins & it seems the folder has been moved from "/data/data/com.plexapp.mediaserver.smb". Did you happen to find the new location of the appdata location?
EDIT: I have just managed to find it. Its located at.. "mnt/expand/RANDOM CODE/user/0/com.plexapp.mediaserver.smb"
RANDOM CODE Seems to be the adoptive storage ID. I didnt include mine because chances are is that mine would be different & it is around 35 characters long.
BIFFTAZ said:
Im looking to install a few plugins & it seems the folder has been moved from "/data/data/com.plexapp.mediaserver.smb". Did you happen to find the new location of the appdata location?
EDIT: I have just managed to find it. Its located at.. "mnt/expand/RANDOM CODE/user/0/com.plexapp.mediaserver.smb"
RANDOM CODE Seems to be the adoptive storage ID. I didnt include mine because chances are is that mine would be different & it is around 35 characters long.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you BIFFTAZ. I appreciate your reply. It was driving me crazy not finding it. I ended up resetting my device in frustration and will let you know once I get my Shield back up and running.
Thanks muchly, Neo3D!
It's been working fine for me for the last 10 days or so on my 2015 16GB. Netflix is still working too - I'd read somewhere that they'd made it stop working on rooted devices but that doesn't seem to be the case here.
Hopefully the setup will survive the next Plex Media Server update !
BTW, after much unsuccessful faffing around with ES File Explorer etc, in the end I removed the existing PlexMediaServer via:
Code:
adb shell # on your PC
su # you will have to grant superuser access when asked by the SU app
mount -o rw,remount -t ext4 /system # mount /system as read-writeable
cd /system/app
rm -rf PlexMediaServer
Does this method work for the latest version of Shield with the latest software (just got one last week) ?
If yes, do any of the steps above change for it, or can I follow them to the dot?
TIA for the help... and Thank you OP for the awesome work!
@Neo3D, tank you so mutch, your trick worked like a charm (on my Nvidia Shield TV 2017, 16GB, Nvidia Experience 6.2)!
I've been spent a lot of time searching a solution to the Plex server and 16GB Shield limitation, and finally I got Plex working on the adopted storage!
(I suggest to @snickler or others moderators, to post this solution as a sticky post)
I also made some R/W performance tests:
1) insternal Shield storage: 210/40
2) KingFast SSD, 30GB, 1,8 inch, mSATA III, MLC (adopted storage) + Inateck USB 3.0 SSD mSATA, USB 3.0: 210/97
3) SanDisk Ultra Fit, 32GB, usb 3.0 (adopted storage) : 80/30
BIFFTAZ said:
Im looking to install a few plugins & it seems the folder has been moved from "/data/data/com.plexapp.mediaserver.smb". Did you happen to find the new location of the appdata location?
EDIT: I have just managed to find it. Its located at.. "mnt/expand/RANDOM CODE/user/0/com.plexapp.mediaserver.smb"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi, I have a question: did you managed to manually install plugins like Trakt or WebTools?
coolpal said:
Does this method work for the latest version of Shield with the latest software (just got one last week) ?
If yes, do any of the steps above change for it, or can I follow them to the dot?
TIA for the help... and Thank you OP for the awesome work!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, it works!
You can follow the step-by-step from the OP, in case of troubles uninstalling Plex server you can follow the steps provided by @Xaph0d.
When starting Plex server for the first time, pay attention to the pop-up asking for w/r permission.
Then profit it!
goose2600 said:
I also made some R/W performance tests:
1) insternal Shield storage: 210/40
2) KingFast SSD, 30GB, 1,8 inch, mSATA III, MLC (adopted storage) + Inateck USB 3.0 SSD mSATA, USB 3.0: 210/97
3) SanDisk Ultra Fit, 32GB, usb 3.0 (adopted storage) : 80/30
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How did you do this performance tests?
goose2600 said:
Yeah, it works!
You can follow the step-by-step from the OP, in case of troubles uninstalling Plex server you can follow the steps provided by @Xaph0d.
When starting Plex server for the first time, pay attention to the pop-up asking for w/r permission.
Then profit it!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks.. was able to root it.
Had to splice two usb cables to make A to A cable.
Now stuck on deleting PlexMediaServer. Using the method suggested by @Xaph0d, and get a prompt from superuser which i granted, but still see "Read-only file system". Any ideas what could be wrong?
GrandStar said:
How did you do this performance tests?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just using A1 SD Bench android app.
It is not science, but crearly demonstrate as adopted storage can be fast.
coolpal said:
Now stuck on deleting PlexMediaServer. Using the method suggested by @Xaph0d, and get a prompt from superuser which i granted, but still see "Read-only file system". Any ideas what could be wrong?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try this:
Code:
adb shell
su
mount -o rw,remount -t ext4 /system
Thanks @goose2600
I am able to get it all working!
Can I migrate my existing PMS library metadata from Windows 10 machine to Shield?
coolpal said:
Thanks @goose2600
I am able to get it all working!
Can I migrate my existing PMS library metadata from Windows 10 machine to Shield?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Probably you can, but as I am new to Plex (and also re-reading the steps 9 and 11 of this guide) I don't know how Plex create the library, so I preferred to start from the scratch.
Now I would like just to find a way to install any unsupported plugins. If you will ever know the way, let me know
EDIT: To get unsupported plugins to works, we have justs to symlink the Plug-ins folder located in the data folder present in the external adopted storage (which is no writable) to a new folder located on the /sdcdard, which is writable.
I just graded to higher external HD from smaller HD. My device is not rooted and stock. I don't how I managed use my original HD as my plex server for all my movies. Now trying to figure out update it where the shield would recognize the new HD
Thanks for this guide, got it all working! Apart from one thing....
For some reason Plex is not downloading all the metadata, movie posters etc. It will only download maybe a handful or two, but not my whole library.
I had no issues when Plex was on the internal storage, but a nightmare now on the external storage. What can I do to fix this please?
Be sure to follow the guide step by step, even steps 9, 10 and 11.
Pay also attention to give the r/w permission when Plex will ask for them (it is pretty easy to dismiss the request).
I moved Plex data on two devices following this guide, and always worked without any troubles.
goose2600 said:
Be sure to follow the guide step by step, even steps 9, 10 and 11.
Pay also attention to give the r/w permission when Plex will ask for them (it is pretty easy to dismiss the request).
I moved Plex data on two devices following this guide, and always worked without any troubles.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've followed the guide exactly, especially those steps. Still don't get why it's only downloading some metadata and not all my library. Will have to post a screenshot later
Without root
I belive it shoud work also without root doing this:
1. Enable Developer mode
2. Enable ADB via usb in developer
3. run:
Code:
adb devices
4. Give permission on the screen
5. run:
Code:
adb shell
6. run:
Code:
pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.plexapp.mediaserver.smb
(this will uninstall the app from curent user 0)
7. Reinstall Plex Server form store