Android 13 introduced several changes that impacted how apps interact with the file system, leading to compatibility issues with file management tools like ZArchiver. A primary problem revolves around the tightened restrictions regarding access to external storage, particularly the root directory and other system-level folders.
Before Android 13, ZArchiver could often directly manipulate files in nearly any location on the device’s storage, provided the user granted the necessary permissions. However, Android 13 implemented a more granular and scoped storage system. This means applications now generally require specific user permission to access particular directories or files, significantly limiting broad file system access. Attempting to access restricted areas often results in “Access Denied” errors or app crashes.
One of the common issues users experience is the inability to extract or create archives directly in certain locations like the Android/data or Android/obb folders. These folders are crucial for many games and applications, and the inability to modify their contents using ZArchiver disrupts functionalities like installing game mods or backing up application data. While ZArchiver might still be able to browse these directories, attempting to write to them is frequently unsuccessful.
Another related problem stems from Android 13’s stricter handling of file paths. The system now prioritizes using MediaStore APIs for accessing media files like images, videos, and audio. While ZArchiver can still access these files, bypassing the MediaStore API to directly manipulate them (e.g., renaming or moving) can lead to inconsistencies or unexpected behavior. The system might not immediately recognize changes made outside of the approved MediaStore channels, causing issues with media playback or file organization.
Developers of ZArchiver are continuously working on updates to mitigate these issues and improve compatibility with Android 13. They explore alternative methods, such as utilizing Storage Access Framework (SAF) to request user-granted access to specific folders. However, the SAF implementation can be more cumbersome for users compared to the previous, more direct file access methods.
Workarounds for users sometimes involve using the system’s built-in file manager to move files to more accessible locations before archiving or extracting with ZArchiver. Furthermore, some specialized file managers with root access (on rooted devices) may bypass some of the Android 13 restrictions. However, rooting carries its own risks and voids warranties.
Ultimately, the challenges ZArchiver faces on Android 13 highlight the ongoing tension between user freedom in managing their files and the operating system’s need to ensure security and privacy. As Android evolves, developers of file management tools like ZArchiver must adapt to the evolving permission models and storage access paradigms to maintain functionality while respecting the user’s and system’s security requirements.