If your smartphone is feeling slower than usual or struggling to handle multitasking, you’re not alone. As apps become more powerful and storage-heavy, even modern phones can start to lag. The good news is that in 2025, there’s a simple and totally free solution — increasing your mobile’s virtual RAM.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore what virtual RAM is, how it works, and how you can increase it on your Android or iPhone without spending a dime. This method doesn’t require rooting or technical expertise — anyone can do it!
What Is Virtual RAM in Smartphones?
Before we dive into increasing it, let’s first understand what Virtual RAM (also called RAM expansion or swap memory) actually means.
Your phone uses RAM (Random Access Memory) to temporarily store data for active apps. The more RAM your device has, the more tasks it can handle simultaneously — like switching between apps or playing games smoothly.
When your phone’s physical RAM runs low, the system can borrow space from internal storage, converting it into Virtual RAM. This acts like an extension of your real RAM, helping your device run smoother.
Why Use Virtual RAM?
Here’s why Virtual RAM is becoming popular in 2025:
- 🧠 Better Multitasking: Keeps more apps running in the background.
- 🚀 Faster Performance: Reduces lag and app reload times.
- 📱 Longer Device Lifespan: Helps older phones stay functional longer.
- 💸 Totally Free: No hardware upgrades or purchases required.
Many brands like Samsung, Xiaomi, Vivo, Oppo, Realme, and others now support virtual RAM expansion via software updates.
How Much Virtual RAM Can You Add?
Depending on your device and brand, you can typically add between 2 GB to 16 GB of virtual RAM. Here are some examples:
| Brand | Max Virtual RAM |
|---|---|
| Samsung | Up to 8 GB |
| Xiaomi (MIUI 14+) | Up to 5 GB |
| Realme/Vivo | 3–12 GB |
| Oppo (ColorOS) | Up to 7 GB |
| OnePlus | Up to 6 GB |
| Infinix / Tecno | 3–6 GB |
Note: The exact amount depends on available internal storage and device model.
How to Increase Virtual RAM on Android (Totally FREE)
Let’s break it down by brand and method.
🔹 1. Samsung Phones (RAM Plus)
Samsung includes a built-in feature called RAM Plus in One UI 4 and above.
Steps:
- Go to Settings > Battery and device care.
- Tap on Memory.
- Select RAM Plus.
- Choose the amount you want to add (e.g., 2 GB, 4 GB, 6 GB, 8 GB).
- Restart your device for changes to take effect.
✅ Tip: Don’t allocate too much — leave enough space on internal storage.
🔹 2. Xiaomi / Redmi / Poco (Memory Extension)
If your device runs MIUI 13 or newer:
Steps:
- Open Settings.
- Tap Additional Settings > Memory Extension.
- Toggle the switch ON.
- Your device will use part of your storage as RAM.
📌 You may need to restart your phone once activated.
🔹 3. Realme and Oppo Phones (RAM Expansion)
Realme UI and ColorOS now have a RAM Expansion feature.
Steps:
- Go to Settings > About Phone.
- Tap on RAM (or RAM Expansion).
- Choose how much RAM to add (2 GB / 4 GB / 6 GB).
- Tap Restart to apply.
🛠️ This is pre-installed on most 2023+ models.
🔹 4. Vivo Phones (Extended RAM)
Vivo devices with Funtouch OS or OriginOS support virtual RAM.
Steps:
- Open Settings.
- Navigate to RAM & Storage Space > RAM Expansion.
- Enable the feature and choose the size.
- Restart your phone.
🔄 Make sure you have free internal storage to support expansion.
🔹 5. OnePlus (RAM Boost)
OnePlus provides RAM Boost and RAM Expansion in OxygenOS.
Steps:
- Go to Settings > System > RAM Expansion.
- Enable the feature.
- Choose size and restart.
📈 Great for gaming and performance-heavy tasks.
Can You Add Virtual RAM on iPhone?
As of 2025, Apple does not offer Virtual RAM on iPhones. iOS is built to manage RAM efficiently without the need for user modification.
However, you can optimize iPhone performance by:
- Clearing background apps
- Offloading unused apps (Settings > General > iPhone Storage)
- Updating to the latest iOS version
- Restarting the device regularly
Apple’s hardware and software integration reduce the need for virtual RAM.
Third-Party Apps for RAM Boost (Android Only)
While built-in settings are best, here are some free apps that offer similar functionality:
| App | Features |
|---|---|
| Phone Master | RAM cleaning, file management, virtual RAM toggle |
| Virtual RAM Expander | Converts storage to usable memory |
| Smart Booster | Boost performance, auto-clear background tasks |
📥 Note: Always download from trusted sources (like Google Play Store) and check app permissions before granting access.
Important Tips Before Expanding Virtual RAM
- 💾 Free up storage: Virtual RAM uses internal storage. At least 4–6 GB of free space is recommended.
- 🔋 Battery impact: Slight increase in power usage is possible.
- 🚫 Don’t over-allocate: Using too much storage for RAM can slow down read/write speeds.
- 🧹 Keep your phone clean: Clear cache and unused files to make space.
Does Virtual RAM Really Work?
Yes, but with some limitations.
Pros:
- Improves multitasking and reduces reloads
- Better app-switching experience
- Helps older devices keep up
Cons:
- Not as fast as real physical RAM
- Depends on internal storage speed (UFS vs. eMMC)
- No major boost for gaming or 3D apps
💡 Think of it as a support system, not a replacement for physical RAM.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Can I add 8GB of virtual RAM to a phone with only 3GB RAM?
Yes, if your brand allows it and you have enough free storage. But don’t expect it to perform like a high-end phone.
❓ Will virtual RAM affect storage lifespan?
A little — since it’s constantly read/writing, storage wear may slightly increase over time. But it’s minimal for casual users.
❓ Is rooting required?
No! All methods shared here are official, safe, and do NOT require root access.
❓ Can I disable virtual RAM later?
Absolutely. Just go back into settings and turn it off or reduce the allocated size.
Conclusion: Boost Performance with Virtual RAM — Free and Easy!
In 2025, smartphone manufacturers are giving users more power to optimize their devices. The ability to increase virtual RAM is one such feature — and the best part is, it’s totally free and doesn’t need any advanced skills.
