An external device permits Android mobile devices to access data stored on Secure Digital (SD) cards. These peripherals typically connect to the phone via the USB port, providing a bridge between the mobile operating system and the storage media. A common example is a compact adapter that plugs into the USB-C port of a modern smartphone, enabling the user to view and manage files on a microSD card.
The use of such an adapter offers several advantages. It allows for expanded storage capacity beyond the phone’s internal memory, facilitating the transfer of photos, videos, and other large files. Historically, these devices provided a crucial workaround for phones with limited built-in storage or those lacking a dedicated SD card slot. This capability proves invaluable for photographers, videographers, and anyone needing to manage large amounts of data while mobile.