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A keen observer such as yourself likely noticed there’s a USB port on the bottom edge of your Google Pixel phone—good eye! However, you’re probably not using the USB-C port to its full potential. Let’s fix that.
Transfer Files and Photos More Easily to a Computer
If you’re tired of waiting for cloud services to upload and download, your Pixel’s USB-C port offers a direct line to your computer. Just grab a USB-C cable, plug it into both your phone and your computer, and you can quickly drag and drop files, photos, and videos back and forth. Whether you have a Windows PC or a Mac,it should be recognized.
Move Files and Photos to a USB Drive
You could also skip the tethering and use a USB drive. We often think of USB drives as being for computers, but they work with phones, too. you’re able to connect a standard USB drive directly to your phone with an adapter, or just get a USB-C drive. Your Pixel will recognize the drive, allowing you to browse, copy, and move files just like you would on a computer. This is especially handy for large video files that would take forever to transfer wirelessly.
Transfer Files and Photos Between Phones
Let’s stick with the theme of transferring stuff. The USB-C port can simplify the process of moving files between devices. Pixel phones come with a USB-C to USB-C cable, which means you don’t need any adapters. You can directly connect almost any phone to your Pixel. This often allows for faster and more reliable transfers compared to wireless methods.
Use Wired Headphones & Peripherals
While Bluetooth headphones are undeniably convenient, sometimes wired is better. Your Pixel’s USB-C port can connect to wired headphones with a cheap adapter for high-fidelity audio. Beyond audio, you can also connect other peripherals like USB-C hubs, keyboards, and mice—they’ll almost always work seamlessly. This can turn your Pixel into a mini workstation in a pinch.
UGREEN USB-C to 3.5mm Adapter
If you just want to simply add a 3.5mm port to your headphone jack-less phone, this is an affordable way to do it.
Charge Accessories With Your Pixel
Your Pixel’s battery can be used for more than just powering itself. With the right cable (usually USB-C to USB-C), you may use your Pixel to charge other devices like wireless earbuds or even another phone. This reverse charging feature can be a lifesaver when your other gadgets are running low on power and an outlet isn’t nearby. Just be careful not to leave your Pixel without any juice left.
Get a Better Vehicle Display With Android Auto
If your car supports it, connecting your Pixel via its USB-C port is the gateway to Android Auto. This puts a more streamlined version of your phone’s interface on your car’s display, giving you easy access to navigation, music, calls, and more. It’s a safer and more convenient way to use your phone while on the road, and Android Auto is much nicer than whatever built-in infotainment system came on your vehicle.
A phone’s capabilities can be surprising when you start thinking of it more as a computer. A Google Pixel phone’s USB-C port can be just as versatile as a computer’s. Beyond the obvious tasks like transferring files and photos, it can do so much more.
