Do you have a USB TV? Then you have 5 hidden features you didn’t know about

Does your TV have a USB port? If so, there could be features that you aren’t taking advantage of. Here’s how you can change that. The ports located on your television can typically be found on the side or back of the device.

In addition to an HDMI port, many televisions also have a place for USB sticks. Most gadgets that can be plugged into the TV to access streaming services, like the Amazon Fire Stick, use the HDMI port.

However, there are instances where you’ll appreciate having a USB drive connected. For example, as JV Tech points out, if you’re ever in a pinch, your television can serve as a charging station, allowing your phone or other electronic devices to be plugged in through the USB port.

If you plan to use the TV as a monitor, the USB port may be useful, as you can connect a mouse or keyboard to the device to navigate.

If you have any content, such as movies or TV shows, loaded onto a USB drive, you can plug it directly into the TV to play. This might be easier for those who lack a DVD or Blu-ray player. If you are looking to play content from a USB, you will want to navigate to your TV’s inputs and select the corresponding option.

How to Geek has a great tip for those who are still looking to record live TV. Some TVs will allow live programs to be recorded to a USB drive if it is plugged into the device.

Lastly, if you wish to install software updates on your TV, you can do so by introducing them through the USB port.

What you can’t do through your USB Port

However, before you drive yourself crazy trying to use the USB port to mirror content from your phone to the TV, you should know that on most TVs, this is impossible. Sending content from your smartphone to the TV will require an HDMI adapter, a Bluetooth television, or a device like Chromecast or Apple TV.

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