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On modern versions of Android, you’ll get a notification saying the drive is “for transferring photos and media” after you attach it. The Non-Root Method: For Most Newer Devices Formatting the drive will erase its contents, however, so you should ideally make sure it’s in the correct format when you first transfer files to it. If your device isn’t formatted with an appropriate file system, you’ll be able to format it after connecting it to your Android device.
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No Android devices will support Microsoft’s NTFS file system, unfortunately. Some Android devices may also support the exFAT file system. Your USB drive should ideally be formatted with the FAT32 file system for maximum compatibility. RELATED: What's the Difference Between FAT32, exFAT, and NTFS? This cable can also be used to connect other types of USB devices to your Android phone or tablet, including USB keyboards, mice, and gamepads.
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Once you have it, just use the cable to connect your Android phone or tablet and USB drive together–that’s it. Some smartphones and tablets may not have this ability, so you may want to perform a web search to see if your device is compatible before purchasing a cable. Your Android device needs the ability to function as an OTG host. Unfortunately, this may not work on some devices. It’s a short adapter cable with a small MicroUSB connection at one end and a larger USB connection at the other end. These cables can be had for $5 or so on Amazon. In order to connect the flash drive to your phone or tablet, you’ll need a USB on-the-go cable (also known as USB OTG). You’ve probably noticed that your phone doesn’t have a normal USB port.
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RELATED: How to Connect Mice, Keyboards, and Gamepads to an Android Phone or Tablet
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