So I wanted to game on my Fire TV Stick. However, because games are usually big requiring up as much as 1GB of storage, I had to expand on my Fire TV Stick internal storage with some additional external storage options. So I quickly bought a 32GB USB Flash disk and added it to my Fire TV Stick 3rd Gen. Now all my gaming apps are stored there.
Here’s how I did it.
Get an OTG cable or adapter
AuvilPal OTG Cable
The first thing you’ll have to get is an OTG cable. An OTG cable enables you to connect USB external storage to your Fire TV Stick by adding a USB-A interface. One end of the OTG cable connects to the Fire TV Stick, the other connects to Power source while the 3rd one connects to USB device.
I got myself the AuviPal OTG cable and Ethernet USB Hub for $14 instead.
Get USB Flash drive or micro SD card
Once you have an OTG cable, the thing is to get a good USB Flash drive. You can get an affordable 64GB SanDisk Flask for just $11 . You can also get a micro SD card which apparently is faster, but that will require an additional Memory card USB adapter.
AIFXT memoery card reader
For my setup, I got the AIFXT Portable USB 3.0 Dual Slot Flash Memory Card Adapter Hub for $8.
I connected a 32GB Samsung EVO micro SD Card to it and then plugged the USB adapter to the the OTG cable.
Formatting USB Drive as Internal storage
Warnings and Tips
- Do Not Unplug: Do not unplug the USB drive or power off the Fire TV Stick during formatting, app transfer, or data transfer, as this can corrupt the drive or cause data loss.
- Drive Compatibility: For best results, use Amazon-approved or well-reviewed USB drives. Not all drives work reliably with Fire TV devices.
There are two ways Fire TV stick can use external storage; as internal storage and as external storage. When used as external storage, the USB drive can only be used to store and read data such as movies, files, music etc. It can’t used to install Apps.
To use your USB drive as location for installing Apps, you’ll have to format it as internal storage. This will make the external USB drive to be used for installing Apps from the App store. To do that, go to Settings > My Fire TV > USB Drive > Format to Internal storage. All content on the USB drive will be erased, so be sure to first backup any valuable data.
Settings > My Fire TV
Settings > USB Drive
Format USB Drive to internal storage
The formatting should start. It takes between 2-5 minutes depending on how big your USB flash is. You should not interrupt this process by unplugging the USB drive from your Fire TV.
USB Drive formatting complete
Once the formatting is complete, your USB drive is now available to the Fire TV as internal storage. You can now either install or move Apps to your USB drive.
Moving existing Apps to USB drive
To move your already installed Apps to the USB drive, go to Settings > Applications > manage Installed Applications. You’ll see your Flash drive shown as External space meaning that you can move Apps to it.
Settings > Applications
Fire TV Settings > Manage installed Applications
Move Application to USB Storage
To view only apps that have been moved to USB Drive, Under Manage installed Applications , select Show all applications > Show USB only . Alternatively, you can also go to Settings > My Fire TV Stick > USB Drive > Manage Installed Applications. You’ll see a little USB icon next to Apps moved to the USB drive.
Select USB Only to show Apps moved/installed on USB Drive
Fire TV showing USB Apps only
Also when you download big Apps from the App store, the default location will now be the USB drive especially if you don’t have any more space left on your Fire TV Stick’s internal storage.
Launching Apps on USB Drive
The usual way of launching any App on Fire TV is by going to the Apps on the main menu and browsing through a list of installed apps. However, when you select an App moved to the USB drive, Fire TV will instead take you to the download page which is odd.
So the work around this is, go to Settings > Applications > manage installed applications > select app moved to USB drive > launch.
Move USB Drive Apps back to Internal storage
You can move Apps from the external USB drive back to Fire TV Stick’s internal storage if you have space. To do this, go to Settings > Applications > Manage Installed Application > Select USB Drive Application > Move to Internal storage.
Move USB Drive Apps back to Internal storage
Moving App back to Fire TV Internal storage
Compatibility Notes
- Supported Models: Fire TV Stick 3rd Gen and newer (including Lite, 4K, 4K Max) Fire TV Cube (all generations) Fire TV Edition Smart TVs
- Not Supported: Fire TV Stick 1st Gen and 2nd Gen do not officially support app installation or moving apps to external storage.
- Fire OS Requirements: Fire OS 7 or later is recommended for full support of external storage as “internal storage” (for apps). Some features may be limited or unavailable on older Fire OS versions or hardware.
Here is our video step-by-step tutorial on how to set up the firestick external and internal storage using a USB Drive.
Safely Ejecting USB Drive
You should never simply yank out the USB drive from your Fire TV Stick while it’s powered on. Doing so might result in data corruption. So to safely eject the USB drive from your Fire TV Stick, go to Settings > My Fire TV > USB Drive > Eject USB Drive.
Safely eject USB drive from Fire TV Stick
Now please note that ejecting the USB drive from your Fire TV Stick will result in apps moved to external storage being unavailable. You’ll always get the warning above when you attempt to eject your USB Drive from your Fire TV.
Troubleshooting: Common Issues
USB Drive Not Recognized
- Ensure the OTG cable and USB drive are properly connected and powered.
- Try a different USB drive or OTG cable.
- Restart your Fire TV Stick after connecting the drive.
- Make sure the drive is formatted as FAT32 or exFAT before use.
Can’t Move Certain Apps
- Some system or Amazon-built-in apps cannot be moved to external storage.
- Only apps that support external storage will show the “move to USB storage” option.
- Update your Fire TV OS to the latest version for best compatibility.
Apps on USB Drive Are Slow or Won’t Launch
- Use a high-quality USB 3.0 drive for best performance.
- Avoid using very old or slow USB sticks.
- If apps fail to launch, try moving them back to internal storage and reinstalling them.
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H96 Max M9 TV Box Android 14.0 RK3576 8GB RAM 128GB ROM WiFi6 1000M LAN BT5.4 USB3.0 Support AV1 VP9 4K 60fps H.265 HDR Box
Q: Can I use the same USB drive for media and apps? A: No. When formatted as “internal storage,” the USB drive is dedicated to app storage and cannot be used for regular file transfers (media, documents). If formatted as “external storage,” it can store media but not apps. You must choose one mode during setup.
Q: Will apps run slower from external storage? A: Apps may run slightly slower from a USB drive compared to internal storage, especially if the drive is slow. Using a fast, USB 3.0 drive minimizes performance loss.
Q: How do I safely remove the USB drive? A: Go to Settings > My Fire TV > USB Drive > Eject before physically unplugging the drive. This helps prevent data corruption and ensures all transfers are complete.
David Okwii is the Editor-in-Chief of Dignited.com and a seasoned tech enthusiast whose journey began in the early 2000s. He started blogging while at university, diving deep into mobile apps, smartphone reviews, and operating systems—from testing Linux distros to tweaking Windows machines. David also explores Chromebooks, experiments with Raspberry Pi projects, and brings hands-on curiosity to every review. With vast experience in Uganda’s tech ecosystem and deep knowledge of Africa’s startup landscape, he offers informed, grounded perspectives on consumer technology. When he’s not writing or tinkering, David enjoys connecting with nature and exploring the outdoors.
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Talkio Mobile , Uganda’s newest telecommunications service provider, is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Banana Life Investments, a leading chain of mobile phone and retail shops. This strategic alliance aims to bring Talkio’s innovative telecom services closer to Ugandans.
This collaboration will leverage Banana Life Investments’ extensive retail network of 26 stores strategically located across Uganda in major malls, towns, and cities to provide customers with unparalleled convenience. Through this partnership, Talkio Mobile will offer its full suite of services, including SIM cards, airtime, and exclusive product offerings at any Banana Life Investment location.
This partnership is more than a business initiative—it’s a shared commitment to transforming lives. By integrating Talkio Mobile’s forward-thinking services & nationwide reach with Banana Life Investments’ retail footprint, the two brands are setting a new standard for customer convenience and inclusivity.
READ ALSO: 5 Things You Need to Know About Talkio Mobile: New Telecom Company in Uganda
“This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission of connecting Ugandans to innovative and transformative telecom solutions,” said Vianne Allan Ahura, CEO of Talkio Mobile. “By leveraging Banana Life Investments’ trusted presence and nationwide footprint, we are not only expanding our agent network but also bringing our services closer to the communities we serve. This collaboration ensures that our online customers can now enjoy a seamless offline experience right at their doorstep. Together, we are empowering Ugandans with the tools they need to stay connected, grow their businesses, and unlock new opportunities.”
Solomon Ssemuyaba, the assistant general manager at Banana Life Investments, echoed this sentiment: “We are proud to join hands with Talkio Mobile to deliver innovative, customer-centric solutions. This partnership represents our shared vision of fostering a connected future for Uganda. Together, we are redefining what convenience and accessibility mean for our customers.”
The partnership goes beyond retail distribution, introducing joint initiatives aimed at value addition and personalized service. Customers can expect seamless access to:
- SIM Card Sales : Available at all Banana Life Investments locations.
- Talkio phone number bookings : Book your preferred Talkio number at any Banana Life Investments location.
- Airtime Services : Recharge easily through in-store purchases.
- Customer Support : Friendly and knowledgeable staff trained to assist with Talkio Mobile products and services.
Additionally, the two companies plan to launch promotional campaigns and expand services to even more locations, ensuring no Ugandan is left behind in the digital transformation.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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The Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona , the world’s largest exhibition for the mobile industry, has just concluded. This annual event gathers leading technology brands to unveil groundbreaking mobile, AI, and digital solutions innovations. At MWC 2025, TECNO showcased a range of AI-driven products, reinforcing its commitment to cutting-edge technology.
The key launches included:
- CAMON 40 Series – AI-powered smartphones with One-Tap FlashSnap and advanced mobile imaging features.
- MEGABOOK S14 – The world’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring AI-enhanced multitasking and Snapdragon® X Elite.
- MEGABOOK T14 Air & K15S – Lightweight ultrabooks with AI capabilities and extended battery life.
- TECNO AI Glasses Series – Smart eyewear integrating AI imaging, translation, and AR display.
Jan Stryjak, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research, shared, “In the past year, we have observed significant advancements in the field of AI. AI will continue to drive transformative changes in our daily lives. In this critical period for the economic development of emerging markets, TECNO’s AI technologies are unlocking potential for diverse needs.”
“The application of AI technologies is crucial and urgent in emerging markets. We’re committed to bridging the digital gap between emerging and mature markets,” said TECNO CMO, Laury Bai. “TECNO is taking a practical approach to make AI more accessible, ensuring users in emerging markets can access AI and cutting-edge technologies.”
Laury Bai, TECNO CMO
Driven by its commitment, TECNO has forged a robust partnership with MediaTek, establishing a joint AI laboratory dedicated to accelerating advancements in AI. At the event, James Chen, Vice President of Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek, emphasized, “The synergistic R&D efforts between TECNO and MediaTek are set to democratize AI technology. Our collaboration powers a seamless, interconnected AI experience, bringing users a future of truly connected intelligence.”
James Chen, Vice President, Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek
CAMON 40 Series Powered by AI One-Tap FlashSnap Revolutionizes Smartphone Snapshot Photography
TECNO’s Global Product Launch Officer, Olivier Mas, officially unveiled TECNO’s next-generation AI-driven products. Attendees at TECNO’s launch event witnessed the highly anticipated debut of TECNO’s new CAMON 40 Series, a device that embodies TECNO’s legacy of excellence in mobile imaging. Featuring One-Tap FlashSnap Mode and TECNO AI, the series sets a new benchmark in smartphone photography, delivering exceptional snapshot capabilities and AI-enhanced user experiences.
Olivier Mas, TECNO Global Product Launch Officer
The CAMON 40 Series exemplifies a commitment to innovation that transcends hardware and software, extending into strategic partnerships that deliver cutting-edge AI solutions to emerging markets. Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud, remarked, “Our collaboration with TECNO on the CAMON 40 Series is a standout example. Leveraging Google Cloud’s capabilities, we’ve introduced groundbreaking features such as Ask Ella, AI Image Generator, AI Writing, and AI Translate. I am particularly impressed by the industry-leading and competitive edge of some of these innovations. For instance, TECNO’s AI supports text translation in 136 languages, voice translation in 44 languages, and photo translation in 51 languages. We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with TECNO, unlocking limitless potential to bring advanced yet practical AI capabilities to emerging markets in a convenient and secure manner.”
Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud
The CAMON 40 Series’ innovative One-Tap FlashSnap leverages AI to enhance imaging capabilities, revolutionizing mobile photography. AI optimizes camera startup and continuous shooting for instant captures, while AI-powered multi-frame processing intelligently reduces noise and enhances details, delivering sharper, more refined images. Additionally, the BestMoment algorithm analyzes motion patterns, automatically selecting the optimal frames for precise, high-quality shots in dynamic scenarios, ensuring users an unparalleled mobile imaging experience.
TECNO CAMON 40 Demonstrates the Cutting-Edge FlashSnap Capability
To delve deeper into the imaging prowess of the CAMON 40 Series, TECNO invited Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK, to share the image performance of CAMON 40 Pro. Frédéric highlighted, “The CAMON 40 Pro 5G has demonstrated exceptional imaging and performance capabilities in our rigorous evaluations. We’ve been particularly impressed with photo performance being the best for devices under 600$, and the 1st eligible device to our Smart Choice Label.”
Onsite photo of Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK
Beyond its advanced rapid-capture functionality, the integration of TECNO AI further enhances the device’s capabilities. Intelligent imaging, a 360° AI Call Assistant, and productivity tools elevate creativity and efficiency. Powered by MediaTek’s latest chipsets, the series ensures smooth performance, fast processing, and extended battery life. With a sleek, durable, and water-resistant design, it seamlessly blends style with practicality for modern users.
MEGABOOK S14, the World’s Lightest 14-inch OLED Laptop, Inspires Creators and Game Lovers
The MEGABOOK S14 is TECNO’s first OLED laptop and the industry’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring a 2.8K OLED display and incredibly weighing only 899g (31.7oz). The laptop is equipped with the outstanding power of the Snapdragon® X Elite compute platform, the flagship chipset for AI PCs from Qualcomm Technologies, and integrates TECNO’s world’s first self-developed edge-side large-scale AI model, to achieve AI-enhanced multitasking.
World’s Lightest 14-inch Laptop MEGABOOK S14
Specifically designed for next-gen AI productivity, TECNO AI enhances the Ella AI Assistant, AI-powered PPT generation, AI-driven image search, smart albums, and offline meeting transcription with multilingual support. The External Graphics Dock, equipped with a powerful NVIDIA graphic card, delivers scalable, high-performance capabilities for design, gaming, and content creation. The laptop’s 2.8K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures exceptional visuals, while DTS:X Ultra dual 2W speakers, Wi-Fi 6E, fingerprint login, and PC Manager optimize connectivity and user experience.
TECNO’s strategic partnership with Qualcomm Technologies was a highlight of the TECNO AI Ecosystem Product Launch event, demonstrating a shared vision for the future of AI PCs. Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm, took the stage to discuss the integration of Qualcomm’s cutting-edge PC chipset into the new MEGABOOK S14 laptop, underscoring TECNO’s commitment to delivering high-performance computing solutions.
Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm
In addition, TECNO also introduced several standout new products. The featherlight 999g (35.2oz) ultrabook MEGABOOK T14 Air, features high-speed storage and LPDDR5 memory, while the ultra-thin, all-metal MEGABOOK K15S, equipped with a powerful 70Wh battery and supported by a 65W PD GaN charger, offers a smarter and more long-lasting user experience. Both devices are empowered by TECNO AI with advanced AI capabilities such as AI Album and AI Voice Assistant, making them perfect companions for all aspects of life.
The Next Game-Changing Tech Innovation: See the World with the TECNO AI Glasses Series
TECNO’s new AI Glasses Series also took center stage with the introduction of TECNO AI Glasses Pro and TECNO AI Glasses, reimagining eyewear with cutting-edge imaging, intelligent interactions, and a sleek aesthetic. The TECNO AI Glasses feature an aviator design, while the Pro model showcases a browline style, both embodying timeless elegance and modern fashion.
TECNO AI Glasses Redefine the Way People See the Future
Equipped with a 50MP high-definition camera, the series integrates an OV50D sensor, a 100° ultra-wide-angle custom lens, and an AI ISP imaging chip, forming a mobile-grade imaging system. This system lets users capture stunning, high-resolution photos with advanced AI noise reduction and HDR capabilities. With real-time translation supporting over 100 languages, TECNO AI’s Ella empowers accurate translation even for less common languages, as well as voice control, AI-powered object recognition, and intelligent information summaries for ultimate convenience.
Additionally, the AI Glasses Pro features a MicroLED display with 7th-gen resin waveguide technology, offering a 30° field of view, over 1,500 nits of brightness AR display, and a lightweight, ultra-thin design. The AR display allows users to effortlessly enjoy features like translation display, navigation, information prompts, and teleprompting.
Equipped with a 250mAh battery, these glasses offer over 11 hours of music playback and 8 hours of mixed use with just 30 minutes of charging. An advanced ultra-linear speaker, bass enhancement, and spatial sound deliver an immersive audio experience, while Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 ensure seamless connectivity.
With these innovative launches, TECNO is setting new standards in mobile imaging and AI-enhanced technology, shaping a more connected and empowered future for consumers in emerging markets. Once again, TECNO has showcased its cutting-edge innovation on the global stage at MWC. With the brand essence of “Stop at Nothing”, TECNO’s relentless pursuit of innovation is making AI-powered technology more accessible, allowing consumers to experience the future ahead of time.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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