I'm trying to open the files on a USB drive using my tablet, but it never appears in the Files app or other file managers. I've tried several file manager apps, an OTG checker, and extension software. Whenever I connect the drive, the tablet says it was connected successfully, but I still can't browse the contents. The same USB drive works normally when connected to my phone. I'm not familiar with technical terms and mainly want to watch the movies stored on it. Could this be related to the tablet model, the adapter, the drive's format, or the amount of power the tablet can provide?
3 Answers
Try connecting the USB drive with the tablet unlocked, then look in the system’s storage settings as well as the file manager. If nothing appears, test another USB drive or adapter. That will help determine whether the problem is the tablet’s compatibility, the adapter, or the original drive. Since the drive works on your phone, copy the movies somewhere safe before changing anything.
The drive’s file-system format may be the issue. FAT32 is widely supported, while exFAT and NTFS support varies by tablet and operating system. If the tablet can see the drive but doesn’t show its files, check the format using a computer or another device. Don’t reformat it unless the files are backed up first, because formatting erases everything.
The tablet model and the exact USB adapter matter here, especially if it’s an iPad or another device with limited USB support. A connection message can only mean that the tablet noticed something was plugged in; it doesn’t necessarily mean it can read the drive. Check whether the tablet supports USB OTG and whether the adapter is intended for data, not just charging.
The tablet may not support that format even though the phone does. Also, some drives need more power than a tablet’s USB port can provide, so a powered hub or a different adapter can sometimes help.