OTG has been around for years now. However, we've noticed that many people still ask "What is an OTG cable and how is it supposed to help me?". That's why we decided to write this article.
Let us start off by saying that it's not for everyone. It can be very useful for some - but the vast majority of us simply have no need for it. So, with that out of the way, let us get right into it!
What is OTG?
Let's start with the basics. USB OTG stands for "Universal Serial Bus On The Go" and it's pretty much what it sounds like - a technology that allows you to use actual USB devices with your phone.
The thing is that we're not talking about mini, micro, or USB Type-C here. We're talking about actual USB Type-A devices that we normally use with our laptops or desktops!
This includes the vast majority of USB devices that are out there from mice and keyboards to even mechanical hard drives. However, do keep in mind that not all smartphones support this kind of technology.
Most modern phones should work with this. But, if you've got something that's really old, cheap, or both, there is a good chance that it doesn't support it. Google is your friend here.
Also keep in mind that just because a phone supports USB OTG, that doesn't mean that it'll work with everything. Certain devices may require too much power or may be incompatible due to drivers.
Most gaming wheels, for example, need dedicated drivers to work properly. And many hard drives, especially 3.5-inch ones, ask for more power than a phone can deliver.
What is an OTG Cable?
An OTG cable is pretty much nothing but an adapter from USB Type-A to USB Type-C, micro USB, or anything that your phone may be using.
That's literally all there is to it. One thing to note is that your phone's model doesn't matter. A Type-C OTG cable will work with all smartphones that have a Type-C port and that support the OTG technology.
But, as we mentioned above, not all smartphones support this kind of technology. Nowadays, most of them do. We'd still recommend making a quick Google search, though - just to be safe.
At the end of the day, OTG adapters are fairly cheap. So, even if you can't find anything on Google about your phone, trying the adapter yourself generally costs less than $8.
Using one is as easy as plugging the Type-C or micro part on your phone and the Type-A part with the peripheral that you wish to use. Just don't forget that certain devices may not work due to a need for dedicated drivers or extra power demand.
Wrapping Up
That's all for now. In short, an OTG cable is just an adapter that allows you to connect USB Type-A peripherals to your phone.
Feel like we forgot to mention something important? Got anything wrong? Then let us and everyone else know about it in the comments section down below!
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