Tips to exploit the full potential of the USB port on Samsung phones

The USB port on your Samsung phone is for more than just charging. From turning your phone into a desktop computer to powering other devices, these little-known apps will change the way you use your device.

5. Turn your phone into a second screen for your computer

What if you could turn your phone or tablet into a second screen for your laptop? The GlideX app lets you do this via the USB-C port on your Samsung phone, instantly giving you a second screen for your laptop or desktop. Once connected, your phone becomes a fully functional extended display that works with your Windows computer. While GlideX also works over Wi-Fi, the USB connection offers better stability and less lag.

In addition to extending your screen, GlideX also makes it easy to transfer files between devices, mirror your phone screen to your PC , and control multiple devices with just one keyboard and mouse. It's an all-in-one tool that seamlessly connects your phone to your PC and manages everything from one place.

4. Turn your phone into a desktop PC with DeX

Speaking of replacing traditional setups, if your work revolves around web browsing, document editing, email, and video calling rather than dedicated software, Samsung DeX can even replace your laptop. You just need a monitor at work to connect to.

Samsung DeX lets you turn your phone into a desktop-like workspace by connecting it to an external monitor. Most Samsung flagships from the Galaxy S8 onwards support the feature; newer models only require a USB-C to HDMI cable, while older models require the DeX Station. Add a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse, and you have a true desktop setup running from a device that fits in your pocket.

When you're at home, DeX is also great for watching movies and TV shows. Unlike regular screen mirroring, you can turn off your phone screen while streaming to your TV, which should extend your battery life a lot.

3. Use your phone as a power bank to charge other devices

Most of us use a power bank to charge our smartphones when we travel. But here's something you might not know: Your Samsung phone can double as a power bank for other devices. Yes, Samsung supports reverse wireless charging with PowerShare , but that's not what we're talking about here.

While it can't match the speed of a wall charger, it's perfect for emergencies. The Galaxy Buds will have enough juice to keep you listening for hours longer, or the smartwatch can last until you find a suitable charger.

2. Connect USB to increase phone storage capacity

While not a Samsung-exclusive feature, you can easily plug a USB drive into your phone to increase its storage capacity. The built-in My Files app treats the external drive like any other folder, allowing you to move files back and forth with ease.

This is incredibly useful: You can download 4K videos without losing quality, access work documents from a USB drive during meetings, or share large files much faster than uploading them to the cloud. It’s a useful way to free up gigabytes of space without deleting files you still need.

1. Connect the game controller (or other accessories)

If you have an Xbox or PlayStation controller, you can connect it and use it with your Samsung phone. Just plug it into a USB port and you're instantly connected. The wired connection reduces Bluetooth latency and keeps the controller charged, making games like Call of Duty Mobile and Genshin Impact much more enjoyable than touch controls.

Beyond gaming, your phone's familiar USB port supports a wide range of accessories. Whether you're making music with a MIDI keyboard, connecting faster with a USB-C to Ethernet adapter, or recording voice overs with a USB microphone (like for YouTube videos), there are countless ways to expand your phone's capabilities.