How To Activate RAM Plus (Virtual Memory) Feature In Samsung Galaxy Devices

Naveen Thakur
22 Mar, 2023

Samsung Galaxy devices have consistently been at the forefront of innovation, offering users a range of powerful features to enhance performance and user experience. One such feature, RAM Plus, introduces virtual memory capabilities to Galaxy smartphones, allowing users to optimize multitasking and improve overall device performance. This blog will guide you step-by-step on how to activate RAM Plus on Samsung Galaxy devices, explain how it works, and provide tips to maximize its benefits.

What is RAM Plus?

RAM Plus is Samsung's implementation of virtual RAM, a technology that utilizes a portion of your device's internal storage to function as additional memory (RAM). This feature can significantly enhance multitasking capabilities, allowing more apps to run smoothly in the background without slowing down the device.

While physical RAM is faster than virtual RAM, RAM Plus provides a noticeable performance boost, especially in devices with limited physical RAM. It’s particularly useful for heavy users who frequently switch between apps or run resource-intensive applications like games and editing software.

Devices That Support RAM Plus

Initially introduced with One UI 4.0 based on Android 12, RAM Plus is available on many Samsung Galaxy devices, including:

  • Galaxy S Series: S21, S22, S23, and newer models
  • Galaxy Note Series: Note 20, Note 20 Ultra
  • Galaxy A Series: A52, A72, A32, A53, A73, and newer
  • Galaxy M Series: M32, M52, M53, and newer
  • Galaxy Z Series: Z Fold 3, Z Flip 3, Z Fold 4, Z Flip 4, and newer

If your device runs One UI 4.0 or later, you likely have access to this feature.

How Does RAM Plus Work?

RAM Plus allocates a portion of your internal storage to act as virtual RAM. For example, if you have 128GB of internal storage, a small part of that storage (usually 4GB to 8GB) can be reserved for virtual memory. This virtual memory supports background processes and multitasking, freeing up your physical RAM for more demanding tasks.

While virtual memory isn’t as fast as physical RAM, it reduces app reload times and improves system fluidity when switching between apps.

How To Activate RAM Plus on Samsung Galaxy Devices

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Open Settings:

    • Unlock your device and navigate to the Settings app.

  2. Go to Battery and Device Care:

    • Scroll down and tap on Battery and Device Care.

  3. Select Memory:

    • In the Device Care menu, find and tap on Memory.

  4. Access RAM Plus Settings:

    • In the Memory section, you will see an option labeled RAM Plus. Tap on it.

  5. Choose Virtual Memory Size:

    • Samsung offers several options for virtual memory size, typically ranging from 2GB to 8GB, depending on your device model.
    • Select the amount of storage you want to allocate for virtual RAM.

  6. Restart Your Device:

    • After selecting the desired memory size, you’ll be prompted to restart your device for the changes to take effect.

  7. Verify Activation:

    • Once the phone restarts, go back to the RAM Plus settings to ensure the feature is activated with the chosen memory size.

Customizing RAM Plus Settings

With recent updates, Samsung has made RAM Plus more customizable. Previously, users could not adjust the allocated virtual memory size, but with One UI 5.0 and newer versions, you can choose from multiple options like:

  • 2GB
  • 4GB
  • 6GB
  • 8GB

Choose the size based on your usage needs. If you're a heavy multitasker or gamer, selecting a higher allocation like 6GB or 8GB can significantly enhance performance. For lighter use, 2GB or 4GB is sufficient.

When Should You Use RAM Plus?

  1. For Multitasking:

    • If you frequently switch between multiple apps, RAM Plus helps keep them running smoothly without reloading.

  2. Gaming:

    • Gamers will benefit from RAM Plus as it minimizes lag and ensures smoother transitions between gameplay and other apps.

  3. Running Resource-Intensive Apps:

    • For apps like photo editors, video editors, or other heavy software, RAM Plus improves performance and responsiveness.

  4. Older Devices with Limited RAM:

    • If you own an older Galaxy device with only 4GB or 6GB of RAM, RAM Plus can extend its usability and performance.

Pros and Cons of RAM Plus

Pros:

  • Improved Multitasking: Keeps more apps running in the background without slowing down the device.
  • Enhanced Gaming Performance: Reduces lag and provides smoother gameplay.
  • Customizable Settings: Choose how much virtual memory you want to allocate.
  • Extends Device Lifespan: Older devices perform better with additional virtual memory.

Cons:

  • Uses Internal Storage: Allocating more storage to virtual RAM reduces available storage space for files and apps.
  • Not as Fast as Physical RAM: Virtual memory is slower than physical RAM, so performance gains might be limited.
  • Battery Drain: Slightly increased battery usage due to additional memory management.

Tips to Maximize RAM Plus Efficiency

  1. Regularly Clear Background Apps:

    • Even with RAM Plus active, clearing unused background apps can free up memory and improve performance.

  2. Keep Your Device Updated:

    • Ensure your device runs the latest One UI and Android updates for optimal performance.

  3. Monitor Storage Space:

    • Be mindful of how much storage you allocate to RAM Plus, especially if your device has limited internal storage.

  4. Use Device Care Tools:

    • Regularly use Samsung’s built-in Device Care tools to optimize memory and storage.

  5. Reboot Occasionally:

    • Restarting your device occasionally can help clear cache and maintain system performance.

Troubleshooting RAM Plus Issues

If you encounter issues with RAM Plus, such as lag or crashes, try the following solutions:

  1. Reduce Virtual Memory Allocation:

    • If your device becomes sluggish, try reducing the allocated virtual memory size.

  2. Clear Cache Partition:

    • Boot your device into Recovery Mode and select Wipe Cache Partition to clear temporary files that might affect performance.

  3. Factory Reset (Last Resort):

    • If problems persist, consider performing a factory reset after backing up your data.

Final Thoughts

RAM Plus is a powerful feature that enhances the performance of Samsung Galaxy devices by providing virtual memory support. Whether you're a power user, gamer, or someone looking to optimize your device for everyday use, activating RAM Plus can make a noticeable difference in multitasking and app performance.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily activate and customize RAM Plus to suit your needs. Just remember to monitor your storage space and adjust the settings based on your usage habits for the best results.

Have you tried RAM Plus on your Samsung device? Share your experience in the comments below!



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