How to Create a Bootable USB Drive Using an Android Phone with OTG Capability

Creating a bootable USB drive using an Android phone supported by OTG (On-The-Go) capabilities is a convenient and straightforward process. However, it requires specific apps and careful steps to achieve successful results. Here’s a detailed guide on how to do it.

Requirements

USB Drive: Ensure you have a USB drive with sufficient space for the desired bootable image. Android Device: Your Android phone should support OTG. OTG Adapter: To connect the USB drive to your Android device. Bootable Image: Download the ISO file of the operating system you want to create a bootable USB for.

Steps to Create a Bootable USB Drive

Step 1: Connect the USB Drive

Use the OTG adapter to connect the USB drive to your Android phone.

Step 2: Download an App

Install a file management app that supports USB drives. We recommend using Rufus, DriveDroid, or EchtDroid as they are reliable options. For this guide, we will use EchtDroid

Step 3: Open EchtDroid

Launch the EchtDroid app. It may request permissions to access your USB drive, grant these permissions as required.

Step 4: Select the Bootable Image

In EchtDroid, choose the option to create a bootable USB drive. Then, browse your phone's storage to locate the downloaded ISO file.

Step 5: Format the USB Drive (if necessary)

The app may prompt you to format the USB drive. Confirm that you want to proceed. Note that this will erase all data on the USB drive. Ensure to back up any important data on the USB drive before proceeding.

Step 6: Create the Bootable USB

Follow the prompts in EchtDroid to write the ISO file to the USB drive. This process may take some time.

Step 7: Finish and Eject the USB

Once the process is complete, safely eject the USB drive from your Android device.

Important Tips

Backup Data: Ensure you back up any important data on the USB drive before formatting it. Check Compatibility: Make sure the bootable image you are using is compatible with the device you intend to boot from. Test the USB: After creating the bootable USB, test it on a computer to ensure it works correctly. This step is crucial to ensure the bootable USB functions as intended.

Conclusion

Using your Android phone to create a bootable USB drive is a valuable alternative when a computer is not available. Just ensure you follow the steps carefully to avoid data loss and ensure the bootable USB functions as intended. By following this guide, you can easily create a bootable USB drive on your Android device with minimal effort and time investment.