TVs nowadays include several ports and connections that users may not fully take advantage of. For example, the USB port of your TV is almost background alternative because of high definition alternatives for your game consoles, multimedia and other devices. However, you can still make use of them.
If your Smart TV has a free USB port it’s a good idea to start playing content directly from a high drive or USB memory. It’s also a lifesaver if your HDMI is not available or broken. In this article you can explore different alternatives to use your free USB port on the TV for a variety of tasks.
Your TV free USB port may be more useful than you think
Most houses have USB ports that end up being unused. The main reason is that the functions they were created for, are now replaced by cloud services, streaming platforms and wireless connectivity.
Some years ago, connecting a USB memory to watch a downloaded movie was common. But now Netflix, Disney+ and Prime Video cover that need. However, the free USB port in your Smart TV still has a lot to offer.
In case you experience problems with a software update or installing and app from a different store than Android TV. Or even if you need to load a device without using a power socket, the USB port may be your easiest solution. Keep reading to find 5 useful options to use your free USB.
Update your TV software
Keeping your TV software updated is the key for a well performance. The updates not only correct mistakes, they also improve performance, add new functions and strengthen the device security.
If your TV doesn’t have an Internet connection or automatic updates don’t work properly, you can manually download the firmware from the manufacturer website. Save it in a pendrive and install the files manually to improve operating system speed.
Record TDT content
You can use the free USB port on your Smart TV to record a TDT program directly to an external disk or USB flash memory. The storage device must have enough space and writing speed to record the TDT program. You should use a USB 3.0 or higher version to guarantee data transfer speed and stability. It’s also important to download a TDT recorder app.
Install apps from other stores rather than Google Play Store only
The biggest benefit of a Smart TV with Android TV is that you can install apps that are not present in Google Play official store. You only need to download the APK version in your computer, put it in a memory stick and install it directly from your USB port. This is one of the most useful methods to install streaming apps, alternative web browsers and other customization tools. You should make sure that the external source is reliable before installing any app.
Connect peripherals to improve the experience
The remote control is useful to navigate through interface menus, but you should consider a external keyboard if you want to write passwords or even move faster on the interface. Thanks to an USB port in your computer you can use other peripherals or even enjoy a better user experience when navigating the web.
Charge your devices
In case you need to recharge battery for your mobile phone or tablet, you can do it directly from a Smart TV free USB port. The charging power is limited but more than enough to keep mobile phones, wireless headphones and smart watches fully charged.
The future of USB ports in a TV
Even though USB ports have lost protagonism against HDMI ports, they can still be useful. However, the wireless connections are slowly eliminating the needs for a USB port. Developers still include USB ports because they can offer other possibilities than HDMI ports can’t. It’s very plausible that Smart TV USB ports will remain in the future but only for charging purposes and connectivity with Smart devices.
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