Can the Microsoft Lumia 535 Support an OTG Cable?

Yes, Microsoft Lumia 535 does not naturally support the OTG (On-The-Go) cable, which allows you to connect USB devices directly to your smartphone. However, you can enable this functionality by upgrading your device to Windows 10 Mobile. If you're looking to buy a device with OTG support, this might be something to consider. Let's dive into more details on this topic.

Upgrade to Windows 10 Mobile

In order to use OTG functionality, you need to upgrade your Microsoft Lumia 535 to Windows 10 Mobile. This upgrade is necessary because OTG is only available on the Windows 10 Mobile operating system. Here’s how you can proceed:

Install the Microsoft Upgrade Advisor to check for updates. Run the Upgrade Advisor and follow the on-screen instructions to upgrade your Lumia 535 to Windows 10 Mobile.

Once the upgrade is complete, you can experience the expanded functionality, including USB OTG support.

Does the Original Model Support OTG?

Unfortunately, the original Microsoft Lumia 535 that runs on Windows 8.1 does not support USB OTG. While this feature was not included in the initial release, it has become a common requirement for modern smartphone users. The absence of OTG support in Windows 8.1 version is not due to market demands but rather due to the software capabilities at that time.

However, if you are considering purchasing a new phone, you should check if the Lumia 535 supports OTG on Windows 10. If it does not, you might want to return the device. Keep in mind that the initial release of the Lumia 535 did not need OTG, so it was not a priority during its development.

Checklist and Design Considerations

When designing a smartphone, manufacturers typically consider a range of technical specifications and user needs through a process that involves benchmarking and competitor analysis. OTG support is just one aspect of the overall device. The process involves allocating specific space for various modules, which is determined based on the software and hardware requirements.

For the Lumia 535, which initially did not support OTG, the lack of this feature might have been a choice based on the software limitations and the overall design considerations. If you are curious, it's worth noting that trying to use a USB pen drive with the Lumia 535 after a Windows 10 update might resolve this issue, as some models with Snapdragon 200 series processors do support OTG.

Conclusion and Recommendations

While the initial release of Microsoft Lumia 535 does not support OTG, upgrading to Windows 10 through an update can unlock this functionality. It's essential to understand the limitations and potential upgrades before making a purchase. Although the Lumia 535 may lack OTG support, it still offers excellent functionalities at a reasonable price, especially for users within the Rs.7000 range.

By considering these points, you can make a more informed decision about your smartphone needs.