The capacity to connect external storage devices, such as USB drives, to Android-based mobile phones enhances device functionality. This process involves employing either an On-The-Go (OTG) adapter or a USB-C port if the mobile phone supports it. The adapter facilitates data transfer between the flash drive and the phone’s file system. For example, a user can connect a flash drive containing photos to their Android phone for viewing or transferring those photos to the phone’s internal storage.
The ability to access external storage provides several advantages. It allows for increased storage capacity beyond the phone’s internal limits, facilitating the management of larger files such as videos or high-resolution images. Historically, transferring files between mobile devices and computers often required complex procedures. The introduction of OTG connectivity offered a simpler, more direct method. This also allows for data backup and recovery operations, providing a safeguard against data loss.