How to Open file:///sdcard on Android

Android users often come across the path file:///sdcard/ when they try to open files stored in their phone’s internal storage. This path is used to access your phone’s SD card directory directly through browsers or file managers. However, in modern Android versions, opening this path isn’t as straightforward due to privacy restrictions and new storage rules.

In this article, we’ll explain what file:///sdcard is, why it might not open directly in your browser, and the correct methods to access these files.

What is file:///sdcard/?

The file:///sdcard/ path is a URI (Uniform Resource Identifier) that points to the root folder of your phone’s storage or SD card. It’s commonly used to open files such as:

Photos, videos, and music saved on the SD card
Downloaded files from browsers or apps
Documents stored in internal memory

Earlier, typing this path in Chrome or any browser would display the folder contents. But after Android 11, Scoped Storage rules were introduced, which blocked direct access for privacy and security.

Why Doesn’t It Open in Browser?

If you try opening file:///sdcard/ in Chrome or other browsers today, you’ll see either:

A blank page
“File not found” error
Permission denied message

This happens because browsers are no longer allowed to list your internal files directly. Google implemented this change to protect user data from malicious websites.

How to Open file:///sdcard/ in 2025

Even though browsers block it, you can still access your SD card files using these methods:

1. Use File Manager Apps

The easiest way is to install a good Android file manager. These apps allow you to browse the SD card without typing any path. Check our list of Top 5 File Manager Apps to Explore for the best options.

2. Enable File Access in Android 11+

If your phone is running Android 11 or newer, you need to grant storage permissions first. We have a step-by-step guide here: How to Enable File Access in Android 11.

3. Direct Access via “Files” App

Most phones come with Google’s Files app pre-installed. Open it, tap Internal Storage/SD card, and navigate manually to your folders.

4. Use PC Connection

Connect your phone to a PC via USB and browse the SD card directory. Here’s our detailed post on file:///sdcard explained if you want to know more about this path.