Connect Portable Devices With Compatible Adapters and Cables
Adapters and cables transfer media and connect USB devices to an iPhone or iPad. Whether it’s an Apple official Camera Adapter or a third-party offering, look for these basic adapter cable features:
A 30-pin or Lightning connector at one endA standard USB port on the other end
The idea is to plug one side of the adapter into a tablet or smartphone and then use the USB port on the other side to plug in a USB device.
Other Adapter Functions
Apple markets its adapter as a way to transfer pictures. It’s a function that the adapter does well, allowing you to bypass a computer and transfer files directly from a camera. One less-touted feature of such adapters involves the use of peripherals such as USB MIDI keyboards and microphones. The adapter works well if you want to use your regular USB peripherals without buying versions that are locked to the Apple proprietary connector. It’s also a good option if you want a wired connection for peripherals rather than a wireless one. This use is not officially considered a capability of the adapter, so make sure that your peripheral works with the adapter. Compatibility can be hit or miss at times.
Use Mobile Memory Devices to Transfer Files
If you don’t want to connect USB peripherals and only want to transfer files, portable memory sticks or devices are other options. These devices also come with built-in memory for storing media.
What to Look For
These devices typically feature two connectors:
One can be a Lightning connector for linking with an iPod, iPhone, or iPad. The other is a regular USB connector for use with a laptop or desktop PC.
How to Use Them
Load your pictures or movies from a PC, for example, and then connect to your Apple device, and you’re good to go. You can also move files from your iPhone or iPad to the devices and transfer those files to a computer. In addition to transferring files or media, these portable gadgets play video from the memory stick or device on your iPhone or iPad.
Use Wireless Options to Transfer Files and Connect Accessories
Another way to transfer files or connect gadgets is to bypass the physical connection and go the wireless route.
Connect Bluetooth Peripherals
Many peripherals feature either Bluetooth or AirPlay connectivity, for example. These include iPad keyboards for typing, such as the Rapoo E6300 and Verbatim Wireless Mobile Keyboard, and MIDI keyboards for music like the Korg Microkey 25.
Transfer Files With Wireless Memory Sticks and Dongles
For file transfers, wireless memory sticks or dongles like the Sandisk Connect flash drive are other options. Use this accessory to link with an iPhone or iPad wirelessly. Once connected, transfer documents, music, pictures, and videos to an Apple device.
