It’s one of those little details you probably never pay attention to – a tiny slot at the back of your TV that could actually do far more than you realise. Hidden in plain sight, that humble USB port is more versatile than most people imagine.
More than just for watching videos
For most of us, the USB port on a TV is something we only use to plug in a memory stick full of family photos or a film or two. And yes, that’s one of its most common and practical uses. Pop in a USB drive, and you can relive your last holiday, play your favourite home videos, or even watch movies you’ve downloaded – provided they’re in compatible formats like MP4, MKV or AVI.
But that’s only scratching the surface. Many modern televisions also allow you to record live TV directly onto a USB drive, a great feature if you want to catch up on a programme later. In some cases, you can even use an external drive to expand your TV’s storage, giving you more room to install apps or store temporary data without having to delete anything.
Turn your TV into a mini workstation
Here’s where things get more interesting. That same USB port can turn your TV into something close to a computer monitor. Plug in a keyboard and mouse, and you can navigate menus, search streaming services, or even browse the web more comfortably – especially on smart TVs that include a built-in browser.
Gamers can also make the most of it. Some TVs now support USB controllers, letting you play compatible games directly on your television without needing a separate console or power connection. It’s a small tweak that can make your smart TV feel like a whole new device.
Connect your phone the smart way
If you have a modern smartphone, chances are you can use a USB-C to USB-A adapter to link it to your television. This simple connection allows you to mirror your phone’s screen onto the TV, which can be incredibly handy for showing photos to friends, streaming videos, or even running a presentation during a work meeting.
Not every phone supports this feature, so it’s worth checking your model, but for those that do, it’s an elegant and cable-free way to share what’s on your screen without fiddling with Bluetooth or Wi-Fi settings.
A backup power source you didn’t know you had
Here’s perhaps the most underrated use of all: your TV can charge other devices. Because it’s always connected to the mains, its USB port can deliver enough power to top up a smartphone, smartwatch or tablet. It won’t charge as fast as a dedicated plug, but in a pinch – say when you’ve misplaced your charger or every socket is taken – it’s a surprisingly handy trick.
A tiny feature with big potential
So next time you glance at the back of your TV, don’t underestimate that little port. Whether you’re expanding storage, charging devices, or transforming your living room setup, the humble USB connection is a quiet overachiever.
It’s a reminder that sometimes, the cleverest technology isn’t hidden in the newest features – it’s been sitting right in front of us all along, waiting to be plugged in.
