How to make the most of your Android TV's USB ports

The televisions with Android TV They have a wide variety of functions that can make our user experience much more complete. However, there is one element that often goes unnoticed and hides multiple possibilities: the USB portAlthough most people use it only to play content from a USB flash drive, the truth is that it offers many more applications that can be very useful.

From increase storage capacity to connect peripherals such as keyboards or controllers to video games, the USB port of a Smart TV within Android TV It is a versatile tool. In this article we will explain in detail all the ways in which you can make the most of this connector.

Increase TV memory

One of the most practical uses of a USB port Android TV is the possibility of expand your internal storageMany TVs with this operating system have limited storage capacity, which can make it difficult to install new apps or download media content.

To fix this, simply plug in a USB flash drive or external hard drive and configure it as internal storage from the TV settings. This way, the device will recognize the drive as part of its storage and allow you to install more apps without worrying about the available space.

Play multimedia content

This is, without a doubt, the most common use given to the USB ports of a computer. Android TVBy connecting a USB flash drive or external hard drive loaded with movies, series, music or photos, the TV can play them without needing an internet connection.

For this purpose, the system Android TV It has native multimedia players, but it is also possible to install specialized apps such as VLC o Kodi, which allow greater compatibility with different file formats.

Burn content directly to a USB

Another interesting use is the possibility of recording television programs and storing them on a USB memory stick. Some models of Android TV They allow you to schedule recordings to save DTT content and watch it later without depending on streaming platforms. streaming.

It is important to note that for this use it is recommended to use fast USB drives with enough space, preferably with connectivity USB 3.0 or higher, to ensure smooth recording without interruptions.

Install apps outside the Play Store

Although the official store of Google offers a wide selection of applications, sometimes we may need to install an app that is not available on Play StoreIn these cases, the USB port allows you to install files APK In a simple way.

To do this, simply download the APK file on a computer, transfer it to a USB flash drive and then connect it to the TV. With the help of a File Browser, you can locate the installer and proceed with its installation. However, it is advisable to make sure that the application comes from a reliable source to avoid security risks.

Connecting controllers and peripherals

The USB port of a Android TV It also allows you to connect peripherals such as keyboards and mice, making it easier to navigate applications and enter text. This is especially useful when using web browsers on the TV or when entering long passwords.

Additionally, compatible game controllers can be connected, making it ideal for playing titles available in the store. Android TV or in emulation apps.

Charging small devices

Many televisions with Android TV They feature USB ports that can supply enough power to charge small devices like mobile phones, wireless headphones, or even dongles like a chromecast o Fire TV Stick.

However, it is important to note that charging will not be as fast as with a conventional charger, as these ports typically offer limited power outputs.

Update TV firmware

In some cases, TVs do not update automatically over the Internet or may have problems downloading updates. In these situations, it is possible to perform the update manually via a USB.

To do this, you need to download the latest firmware version from the manufacturer's website, save it to a USB flash drive, and then connect it to the TV. From the settings, you can select the option to update from a USB and the TV will install the new software version.

The USB port of a Android TV It's much more than just a socket for connecting USB drives. Thanks to its multiple uses, it is possible to improve the TV experience in many ways, whether by expanding storage, installing apps, recording content or even using it as a power source. Knowing how to take advantage of these resources can make our Smart TV even more versatile y functional.