These portable storage devices connect to Android-based mobile devices via a USB port, typically Micro-USB or USB-C. Functioning as external memory, they enable users to expand the storage capacity of their smartphones and tablets. One could use such a device to transfer photos, videos, or documents between a computer and an Android phone without relying on cloud services or a direct cable connection.
The utility of these devices lies in their ability to provide readily accessible storage space for large files, backup data, or media libraries. This is particularly beneficial for users who have devices with limited internal memory or frequently deal with substantial file sizes. Historically, their development addresses the need for convenient and offline data portability.