To use a USB flash drive with your Android phone or tablet, you must follow a list of sequential steps listed below:
- Get the Necessary Equipment:
- USB OTG Cable/Adapter:
All Android devices usually come with a micro USB or a USB-C port. These ports are smaller than the standard USB port or Type-A port found on flash drives. A USB OTG or USB On-The-Go will help you connect your Android to the flash device. If your Android device has a micro USB port, you can opt for a micro USB to USB OTG. If your Android operates on a USB-C port, you may use a USB-C to USB OTG cable or an adapter.
- Connect the Flash Drive:
- Using an OTG Cable/Adapter:
Here is how you can use an OTG Cable/Adapter. Just plug in one of the ends of the OTG cable or adapter into the charging port of your Android device.
Now, insert the USB flash drive into the free end of the OTG cable or adapter.
- Direct Connection (Dual Drive)
In the case that you have a dual-drive USB stick that supports Type-A as well as Type-C connectors, you can directly plug it into the USB-C port of your Android device. You will not need an OTG adapter for this.
- Access the Flash Drive:
- Once you have successfully connected the flash drive, you might get a notification on your Android device that shall indicate “USB storage added,” or it may display the name of the connected drive.
- Tap on the popup notification and select “Open/Explore.” You will be able to browse the contents present in the flash drive.
- If you do not get a notification, navigate to the file manager app on your Android device to access the flash drive.
- Transfer Files:
Now, to begin the transfer of files from your Android device to the flash drive or vice versa, follow these steps:
- Search for the files you wish to transfer. Tap and hold each of them.
- Then, tap the “Move” button. Navigate to the location (on your device or the flash drive) where you want to move and save the files. Then tap on “Move here”.
- Formatting (if necessary):
Sometimes, you may need help with issues such as your flash drive not being recognized. In such situations, you may need to format the flash drive to a compatible file system. One of the suggested compatible file systems is the FAT32. You can do this using your computer before and then easily use it with your Android device.
To be on the safer side, make sure that you have a backup of all your important data before proceeding with formatting. If you choose to format, it will erase all data on the flash drive. Using this setup allows for a seamless transfer of files between your Android device and the USB flash drive and also enhances storage and file accessibility.
