It’s no secret that your Samsung Galaxy phone comes with a USB port, but chances are you only use it for one thing: charging. However, the USB-C port on your phone is capable of much more than just powering up your device. Here are six functions you may or may not be aware of.

Transfer Files and Photos More Easily to a Computer

There are many ways to move data from your Galaxy phone to a computer, but the simplest and most direct method is to connect them via USB. It's not only straightforward, but also faster than any wireless alternative. Once connected, your phone will appear as a storage device on your computer, allowing you to easily drag and drop files back and forth.

Move Files and Photos to a USB Drive

What if you want to bypass the computer altogether? While USB drives are typically associated with computers, they can also be plugged directly into your Galaxy phone using a USB-C to USB-A adapter or a USB-C drive. This allows you to transfer files, back up documents, or even watch videos straight from the drive—ideal when your phone’s internal storage is running low.

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As for direct transfers, the methods above can also be used to send files between two phones. For example, if you and a friend took lots of photos together on vacation, instead of waiting for cloud uploads or dealing with sharing apps, you can connect your phones with a USB-C to USB-C cable or share via a USB drive to quickly move everything over.

Connect Peripherals

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$180 at SamsungSee at AmazonSee at Best Buy Expand Collapse The USB port isn't just for storage—it can also turn your phone into a hub for various peripherals. Need to type a lengthy email without using the on-screen keyboard? Attach a physical one. Want to play mobile games with better controls? Plug in a game controller. Even a mouse can be connected for more precise navigation. Android natively supports these devices, letting them function just like they would on a desktop.

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You likely use the USB port on your Galaxy phone mainly for charging, but it can also power other devices. If your wireless earbuds or smartwatch runs out of juice and there's no outlet nearby, you can plug them into your phone like a portable power bank. Just make sure you keep track of your phone’s remaining battery if you still need it for calls or browsing.

Turn Your Phone Into a Desktop PC with DeX

For advanced users, there’s Samsung DeX—a feature that transforms your Galaxy phone into a full desktop experience. Simply connect it to a monitor, keyboard, and mouse, and a desktop-style interface appears on screen. You can then run multiple windows and multitask like you would on a regular PC. It’s a major boost for productivity on the go.

While some of these uses may seem obvious, many people don’t think of their phone the way they do a computer. The USB port on a Galaxy phone is almost as flexible as one on a laptop—if you know how to take advantage of it. Transferring files and photos is just the beginning; there’s a lot more you can do once you start exploring.

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