How Can You Fix the “Use This Folder” Greyed Out Error on Android? (Proven Solutions for a Frustrating Problem)

Struggling with “To Protect Your Privacy, Choose Another Folder” on Android? (Effective Fixes for a Persistent Issue)

Android’s increased storage restrictions, especially from Android 11 onwards, have left many users unable to access certain directories like /Android/data or /Android/obb. When attempting to grant access, the “Use this folder” button appears greyed out, accompanied by the message: “To protect your privacy, choose another folder.” This limitation is designed to enhance privacy but often disrupts legitimate file management needs.

Below are effective methods to resolve this issue. Try each solution in order until you regain folder access.

Solution 1: Use Alternative File Manager Apps

Files by Marc and FV File Manager are third-party apps that can bypass scoped storage restrictions and unlock access to restricted folders. These apps leverage hidden system file manager capabilities, allowing you to access /Android/data and /Android/obb without root in many cases.

Solution 2: Uninstall Updates from the System Files App

Sometimes, updates to the built-in “Files” app (not Files by Google) introduce or enforce new restrictions.

Steps:

1. Go to Settings > Apps > All Apps > Show System Apps.
2. Find the Files app.
3. Tap Uninstall Updates and confirm.
4. Retry accessing the folder; the “Use This Folder” button should become clickable.

Solution 3: Uninstall Files by Google

The Files by Google app can interfere with storage permissions.

Steps:

1. Download and extract Android SDK Platform Tools on your PC.
2. Enable USB Debugging on your device and connect via USB.
3. Open Command Prompt in the platform-tools folder and enter:

   adb shell
   pm uninstall --user 0 com.google.android.apps.nbu.files
   pm uninstall --user 0 com.google.android.documentsui

4. Try the “Use This Folder” button again.
5. If unsuccessful, reinstall Files by Google and proceed to the next fix.

Solution 4: Use KDE Connect with Termux (No Root Required)

This method allows folder access through Termux and KDE Connect.

Steps:

1. Install F-Droid and Termux.
2. In Termux, run:

   termux-setup-storage

3. If it fails, install the add-on: pkg install termux-am
4. The storage folder in Termux will now show the required paths.
5. In KDE Connect, go to Plugin settings > Filesystem expose > Add storage location > Termux > storage.
6. Select the desired path and name it appropriately.

Solution 5: Use LSPosed and NoStorageRestrict Module (Root Required)

For rooted devices, LSPosed with the NoStorageRestrict module can permanently lift storage restrictions.

Steps:

1. Root your device (Magisk/APatch/KernelSU).
2. Install LSPosed.
3. Search for and install the NoStorageRestrict module.
4. Enable the module and restart your device.
5. The folder access limitation should now be removed.

Additional Tips

• Device-Specific Issues: Some manufacturers (Huawei, OnePlus, Samsung, Realme) apply additional restrictions or have unique quirks that may require extra troubleshooting.
• Future Restrictions: Android’s storage policies are evolving. Some workarounds may become obsolete as Google tightens security in future updates.
• Backup Data: Always back up important data before attempting advanced fixes, especially those requiring root access.

Android’s privacy restrictions can be frustrating, but these solutions offer reliable ways to regain access to essential folders. Always choose the method that matches your technical comfort level and device status. For ongoing issues, community forums and developer resources remain valuable for the latest workarounds