USB OTG Apps Recommendations? - Moto G Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

I've noticed that the OTA 4.4.2 update breaks native OTG forcing me to use a file manager app that supports OTG from the Play Store. With that said, does anyone have any recommendations for good file managers with USB OTG support? Preferrably paid with no adds, otherwise paid, but not too expensive (under <$5).
Also does anyone know if File Explorer (fx) supports USB OTG? I've been a long time user but I can't find anything in their documentation that mentions USB OTG support.

Acreo Aeneas said:
I've noticed that the OTA 4.4.2 update breaks native OTG forcing me to use a file manager app that supports OTG from the Play Store. With that said, does anyone have any recommendations for good file managers with USB OTG support? Preferrably paid with no adds, otherwise paid, but not too expensive (under <$5).
Also does anyone know if File Explorer (fx) supports USB OTG? I've been a long time user but I can't find anything in their documentation that mentions USB OTG support.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Im pretty sure ES file explorer does and there is a free version. I will test it when I get home.

I thought maybe Nexus Media Importer would do it, I couldn't figure out how to copy entire directories from my /SD Card folder to the USB drive though :/
ES File Explorer (under KK) doesn't show the USB Drive like it used to under JB (Storage USB 1.1.1) which is a shame so I too wouldn't mind knowing a file explorer app that works (and allows write to the usb drive without rooting)
Kinda pissed Google broke USB OTG for KK, have you ever seen how slow Airdroid is at transferring big files over wi-fi...

techguyone said:
I thought maybe Nexus Media Importer would do it, I couldn't figure out how to copy entire directories from my /SD Card folder to the USB drive though :/
ES File Explorer (under KK) doesn't show the USB Drive like it used to under JB (Storage USB 1.1.1) which is a shame so I too wouldn't mind knowing a file explorer app that works (and allows write to the usb drive without rooting)
Kinda pissed Google broke USB OTG for KK, have you ever seen how slow Airdroid is at transferring big files over wi-fi...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
use stickmount to mount the memory and then use es file manager to acces the files

Looks like it needs root, is there a non root solution?
Sent from my Moto G using XDA premium 4 mobile app

techguyone said:
Looks like it needs root, is there a non root solution?
Sent from my Moto G using XDA premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would like to know if a non-root solution is possible.
If I have to root it, is there a guide somewhere to know I can root my Moto G? I have the US GSM model (XT1034), 16 GBs, and it has the OTA 4.4.2 applied.

On Google+ someone suggested I use Total Commander with the USB plug in (both available from Google Play, and this does work, although the UI is like something from 1990
This solution doesn't need root, give it a go and see if it fits your needs.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ghisler.android.TotalCommander
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=de.hechler.tcplugins.usbstick

techguyone said:
On Google+ someone suggested I use Total Commander with the USB plug in (both available from Google Play, and this does work, although the UI is like something from 1990
This solution doesn't need root, give it a go and see if it fits your needs.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's true, I can confirm it works but in READ ONLY mode.
To write smth to USB Flash Stick / microSD connected via OTG you still need root.
PS
Read only is more than enough to cover my needs cause you still can copy files/folders from memory stick to internal memory.

techguyone said:
I thought maybe Nexus Media Importer would do it, I couldn't figure out how to copy entire directories from my /SD Card folder to the USB drive though :/
ES File Explorer (under KK) doesn't show the USB Drive like it used to under JB (Storage USB 1.1.1) which is a shame so I too wouldn't mind knowing a file explorer app that works (and allows write to the usb drive without rooting)
Kinda pissed Google broke USB OTG for KK, have you ever seen how slow Airdroid is at transferring big files over wi-fi...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep Techguyone is bang on the money. Tested file explorer and various other usb apps and I can confirm that what worked in JB no longer works. Is this something to do with ART?
I can't understand why they would hobble this feature..... Could it be security related? I remember reading about the 'Fraud docks'. Where people would use a mobile charging hotspot and when they plug their android or iphone in it steals their data.....

It's not ART related, google are just gradually locking down their phones more and more which is to be honest, starting to get annoying. It's ridiculous to need root just to be able for example: to turn on/off GPS or Airplane mode. It's getting stupid now. Google are you listening?

techguyone said:
I thought maybe Nexus Media Importer would do it, I couldn't figure out how to copy entire directories from my /SD Card folder to the USB drive though :/
ES File Explorer (under KK) doesn't show the USB Drive like it used to under JB (Storage USB 1.1.1) which is a shame so I too wouldn't mind knowing a file explorer app that works (and allows write to the usb drive without rooting)
Kinda pissed Google broke USB OTG for KK, have you ever seen how slow Airdroid is at transferring big files over wi-fi...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
techguyone said:
It's not ART related, google are just gradually locking down their phones more and more which is to be honest, starting to get annoying. It's ridiculous to need root just to be able for example: to turn on/off GPS or Airplane mode. It's getting stupid now. Google are you listening?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If its not security related, then it is probably more of a 'differential pricing' issue. Moto G has been too successful and is probably canablising sales from the Moto X and Nexus 5 more than expected, so they rush out 4.4.2 and lock up USB OTG and other features on the budget handset......

Use Nexus Media Importer, I was using it before the KK update and have continued to use it since getting KitKat. It works for reading and writing both ways without root. I have never rooted either of my G's. This is a fact not a guess as I actually use it.
And, you can copy entire directories both ways too. (edit)

Related

Media Hub

Hey everyone, since I got my phone I have been unable to get Media Hub to work. I am propted to a msg stating that I need to get the update for media hub to get it working. When I click on the link I get and error stating that the link is incorrect. Could this have anything to do with me not using att as a carrier? Im using Claro in the Dominican Republic. Thanjs for the help!
It's possible... I just checked it and its a link to the Market. Maybe it only works for att's branded market?
Here, this should be the updated apk.
Hey thanks! so I just need to plug in my phone in debugging mode and un zip that file and I should be good to go?
Heuser1 said:
Hey thanks! so I just need to plug in my phone in debugging mode and un zip that file and I should be good to go?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just unzip on your computer, then install the apk on your sd card. Then run it from your phone.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I997 using XDA App
Sorry, a bit new to all of this... should I plug my phone in in mass storage mode? then when I ipen the device I should have the option of where to save it correct? then I send it to sd...
Thanks again for all the help!
Heuser1 said:
Sorry, a bit new to all of this... should I plug my phone in in mass storage mode? then when I ipen the device I should have the option of where to save it correct? then I send it to sd...
Thanks again for all the help!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you hook it up as mass storage, and then turn on mass storage, you will se the drives come up on your computer, then you can just drag the apk to one of the drives (one is the internal SD, about 13GB, and the external, if stock 2GB.)
Once you do that and disconnect, you should be able to go into the My Files app in your drawer, look for the APK file, and run it. You may need to turn on "Unknown Sources" (if you have not already) from Settings > Applications > Unknown sources.
This will allow you to "sideload" applications.
Media Hub HDMI disabled
I don't know if this has been noted by anyone but I found out the hard way that HDMI out is disabled on any videos from the Media Hub. I rented a movie for my family to watch on vacation this weekend but when I connected it to the tv I got an error telling me that the tv out function was unavailable in this application.
Thankfully I was using the $25 credit my phone came with so I didn't really spend any money but this basically makes the Media Hub useless to me. I'm sure it was the content companies that insisted on this not Samaung but it doesn't make it suck any less. Why bother downloading videos from the Media Hub on a phone with HDMI out if you can't use it. I'd rather rip my own videos or use another service that isn't as crippled.
When i connected my phone to the computer I wasn't sure which was the internal SD... Didnt see one labled as such. Could it be download? or Android? Thanks again!
The one with the download folder is most likely the internal.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I997 using XDA App
That seemed to work! Now everytime i want to go to media hub do i have to go in through there or do i just go in through my regular media hub icon? Also do i delete that file from my phone now or does it need to stay there to make it run? Sorry for the noob questions... Still learning here. Thanks!
pthfnder89 said:
I don't know if this has been noted by anyone but I found out the hard way that HDMI out is disabled on any videos from the Media Hub. I rented a movie for my family to watch on vacation this weekend but when I connected it to the tv I got an error telling me that the tv out function was unavailable in this application.
Thankfully I was using the $25 credit my phone came with so I didn't really spend any money but this basically makes the Media Hub useless to me. I'm sure it was the content companies that insisted on this not Samaung but it doesn't make it suck any less. Why bother downloading videos from the Media Hub on a phone with HDMI out if you can't use it. I'd rather rip my own videos or use another service that isn't as crippled.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same experience here except I actually spent the $3.99 rental.. I was so looking forward to showing off the capability to my wife.... ultra lame!
Bump for my last questions
Thanks!
Heuser1 said:
That seemed to work! Now everytime i want to go to media hub do i have to go in through there or do i just go in through my regular media hub icon? Also do i delete that file from my phone now or does it need to stay there to make it run? Sorry for the noob questions... Still learning here. Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That apk file you put on your sdcard can be removed, it was just an install file. You can just run the MediaHub from your normal icon in your applications folder
Thx
I'm running media hub from Jamaica On Digicel (4G) and its great thx a lot cause the version 121 would not go past the update prompt
Media hub will not eork for me because I am not in the US... what kind of work arounds exist? I have heard about hiding my ip address... any ideas? Thanks!
No way to watch on TV yet?

[XOOM 2] Xoom 2 Software Frustration

Connected the Xoom 2, to a windows 7 machine.
Insists on letting installing 'Motocast' which I let it...what a complete pile of shi*.
I want to 'sync' a 700MB .avi video, over usb cable, to the device...estimated time? 30 minutes!!! I swear this complete toss of software is insisting to re-encode the entire file to some bullsh*t format of their choice. Is there an option to turn this off and transfer it natively?
Secondly, thankfully, it also installs native 'portable' device drivers, allowing Windows 7 file explorer to browse the device. Great, so I copy the same .avi file and paste it to the device...'Do you want to copy xyz.avi? Your device might not be able to play this file' I am prompted...'yes' I click. Just as it finishes copying (after about 4 minutes...much better) it bombs out, notifying me that because the device cannot play this file it is cancelling the transfer...wtf?!?!
The only interim solution i've found is renaming the extension '.avi' to something like '.proprietrysoftwarecansuckmyballs', copying it, then renaming it back to '.avi' once transfer has completed solves this.
So can anyone offer any 'clean' solutions to my file transfer woes? If theres no improvement, this device will be getting returned next week, which is a shame as the tablet is a great bit of kit, its just a shame the software blows.
Look for "Wi-Fi File Explorer" in the market.
This looks like it only transfers over wifi?
I need to transfer over usb cable.
Had this problem myself, looks like it doesn't come with the drivers. After a bit of searching, I found that the standard driver package works:
http://www.motorola.com/staticfiles...al_Drivers/MotoHelper_2.0.53_Driver_5.2.0.exe
Installed that, unplug the USB cable and put it back in - should work fine!
tr00st said:
Had this problem myself, looks like it doesn't come with the drivers. After a bit of searching, I found that the standard driver package works:
http://www.motorola.com/staticfiles...al_Drivers/MotoHelper_2.0.53_Driver_5.2.0.exe
Installed that, unplug the USB cable and put it back in - should work fine!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey thanks man, that worked a treat.
Just for clarification, does you still prompt you that the device may not support playback of the file, but then successfully transfer it (whereby it would previously error at the last second)?
No idea - haven't had that particular part of the issue myself - the main thing I had was the slowness...
I am a linux user ... i will only have the option to upload files via wifi network ?
I have a Xoom 2 ME and the only way to copy a large movie file to the device was adb.
adb push foo.txt /sdcard/foo.txt
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's the only usb-way i come up with. I'am on snow leopard and Google's Android File Copy tool does not work.
elster said:
I have a Xoom 2 ME and the only way to copy a large movie file to the device was adb.
That's the only usb-way i come up with. I'am on snow leopard and Google's Android File Copy tool does not work.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I guess the same way will work to linux too . Xoom2 has only one partition on the disk ? that the reason not to be able to mount it as a normal usb ? If you root the device is the anyway to great a small 2 Gb for ex partition to use it for easy transfer ?
Off topic about xoom 2 ME . How good the screen and and the battery life are ?
Useless tablet ?
In fact it's worst!
As a Linux User I hoped being able to use MTP... But I tried mtpfs and mtp-tools on several distributions without any luck.
But what is worse is that FTP server applications won't work too! I tried SwiFTP, FTPServer, and some other: the servers are not reachable. It appears that not even a single ping can reach the tablet. I think Motorala have put some kind of firewall in it (maybe it has something to do with the netflix HD certification?).
For me this tablet is actually useless. If I can't find a way to transfer some files on it without using MotoCast today or tomorrow, I will bring it back to the supplier...
OldBeurt said:
In fact it's worst!
As a Linux User I hoped being able to use MTP... But I tried mtpfs and mtp-tools on several distributions without any luck.
But what is worse is that FTP server applications won't work too! I tried SwiFTP, FTPServer, and some other: the servers are not reachable. It appears that not even a single ping can reach the tablet. I think Motorala have put some kind of firewall in it (maybe it has something to do with the netflix HD certification?).
For me this tablet is actually useless. If I can't find a way to transfer some files on it without using MotoCast today or tomorrow, I will bring it back to the supplier...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You probably hit it on the head about the Netflix certification. I would think about returning it, man.
a solution ?
Thanks to a French forum (frandroid, in the Xoom 2 topic... sorry I can't send links here), I tested a solution to the transfer problem: It is possible to use (on the computer) a server to share the files such as a samba server.
It works fine. But it's not as easy to browse, select, copy and paste file with explorers on the tablet than it is on computers (several windows, keyboard shortcuts such as Ctrl-c/v, and so on).
But it's now possible to exchange files with the Xoom 2ME without going through a cloud or using Windows/motoCast.
mdcykkk9 said:
Off topic about xoom 2 ME . How good the screen and and the battery life are ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry for answering so late.
The screen is quite good.
The battery life is terrible compared to my ipad2. Charging needs a lot of time and is very slow. I guess it's because of mini usb only.
Currently i'am using the device as a Kindle Fire replacement, because off the lightweight (KF is heavier and bulky). The books i usually read have more weight than the device itself.
I like it for that.
But i may not be a good adviser because my device is a prototype. It is not smooth and the speakers are terrible.
I think 8,2" is the perfect size for me. The weight is so much better than any other tablet i had.
OldBeurt said:
In fact it's worst!
As a Linux User I hoped being able to use MTP... But I tried mtpfs and mtp-tools on several distributions without any luck.
But what is worse is that FTP server applications won't work too! I tried SwiFTP, FTPServer, and some other: the servers are not reachable. It appears that not even a single ping can reach the tablet. I think Motorala have put some kind of firewall in it (maybe it has something to do with the netflix HD certification?).
For me this tablet is actually useless. If I can't find a way to transfer some files on it without using MotoCast today or tomorrow, I will bring it back to the supplier...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try using a terminal on the Xoom 2 and ping the computer you're trying to connect to, while pinging your Xoom 2 from that computer at the same time. It's like you have to force them to see each other before they can start connecting in future.
I used fileexpert to see and download files with smb shared folder on Ubuntu Linux without a problem.
Sent from my XOOM 2 ME using Tapatalk

App to sync files with pc

Cab anyone help me out? I used to have a Galaxy S phone and kept some folders in sync with my PC by connecting it as a usb mass storage and using a software called Allway Sync on my PC.
Now with the note it no longer connects as mass storage. I do have Easy UMS installed but I is unstable. I can't use the cloud because of my company's IT policy.
In this way the best shot I have I guess is a Bluetooth method... can anyone suggest an app to solve this?
Try using my phone explorer from play store. Install the pc client too. You can sync via usb, wifi or bluetooth.
Sent from my GT-N7100 using Tapatalk 2
c3p9 said:
Cab anyone help me out? I used to have a Galaxy S phone and kept some folders in sync with my PC by connecting it as a usb mass storage and using a software called Allway Sync on my PC.
Now with the note it no longer connects as mass storage. I do have Easy UMS installed but I is unstable. I can't use the cloud because of my company's IT policy.
In this way the best shot I have I guess is a Bluetooth method... can anyone suggest an app to solve this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You could also try SyncMe Wireless
I currently use samba filesharing to make my phone appear as a drive in pc and then use microsoft sync toy.
Very fast and accurate sync...
Tried many but this has worked best for me.
Sent from my GT-N8013 using Tapatalk 2
aalupatti said:
I currently use samba filesharing to make my phone appear as a drive in pc and then use microsoft sync toy.
Very fast and accurate sync...
Tried many but this has worked best for me.
Sent from my GT-N8013 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's a nice option. It works via USB?
c3p9 said:
That's a nice option. It works via USB?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its a wireless access option via wifi and it shows the internal and external cards as a networked drive in your pc. Due to this data transfer speeds are much better than other wireless option.
I have not seen any app or mod to make note 10.1 appear as mounted disks via usb. Synctoy cannot sync when phone is mounted as media devices. However there might be other programs that might be able to do it.
Earlier versions of samsung rom(for other devices) used to have it but not anymore
Sent from my GT-N8013 using Tapatalk 2
aalupatti said:
Its a wireless access option via wifi and it shows the internal and external cards as a networked drive in your pc. Due to this data transfer speeds are much better than other wireless option.
I have not seen any app or mod to make note 10.1 appear as mounted disks via usb. Synctoy cannot sync when phone is mounted as media devices. However there might be other programs that might be able to do it.
Earlier versions of samsung rom(for other devices) used to have it but not anymore
Sent from my GT-N8013 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is truly a nice option. Do you know if I can use WiFi tethering to connect the note and the pc? I'm asking that because at my company we still use wired networks so I can't put both devices under the same WiFi router except for the tethering option.
I'm using FolderSync on my phone and tablet.
The best, lot of customization.
Sync through SMB, ftp, ssh, Dropbox, GDrive, etc.
Sent from my XT910 using xda app-developers app
I use Dropbox. There is an Android app called Dropsync which does two way sync on the note. There is a free version in the Market with file size limits to try itout.
cholywell said:
I use Dropbox. There is an Android app called Dropsync which does two way sync on the note. There is a free version in the Market with file size limits to try itout.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dropbox would be great but, as I mentioned in the first post I can't use it on my PC due to firewall restrictions at my company.
Lack of USB Mass Storage - Very Annoying
When I wrote the first question I didn´t realize the real problem... the lack of USB Mass Storage in Galaxy Note 10.1.
First of all... I cannot understand why Google decided to move from a standardized interface (USB Mass Storage) to a Microsoft crappy code designed specifically for Photos and Videos (MTP btw it means Media Transfer Protocol).
I know the "trend" is to have everything in the "cloud" but in my country 3G or 4G are still quite expensive and not all company work on full WiFi networks. The lack of such a "cloudless" sync system is in fact one of the main reasons that kept me away from Apple.
Funny thing is that Google an Sammy are copying Apple´s most annoying features... all "cloud" based, no standard sync systems (take the SNotes using Sammy proprietary cloud as an example), proprietary interfaces like the stupid 30 pin connector that needs a powered device to turn into HDMI (hilarious to say the least...)
To me the best "cloud" has always been to sync my PCs at Home and at Work using my Smartphone as the syncing device. I´m very very disappointed with the lack of USB Mass Storage on Galaxy Note 10.1.
Now a few workarounds to those living outside top countries where 4G and WiFi are everywhere...
1) MyPhoneExplorer - can be connected using bluetooth. Pros: has a dedicaded Folder Sync app. Cons: slower for larger files.
2) USB Mode Switch + Alt Mount - creates a "virtual" USB Mass Storage using cable connections - Pros: higher transfer rates. Cons: clumsy as you need to start two apps. Only mounts the internal storage. No sync system. At least I tried AllwaySync as it has a dedicaded ftp sync but couldn´t make it work.
3) SGS3 Easy UMS - Workaround for the SGS3 that works on both GN 10.1 ICS and JB. Pros: higher transfer rates. True Mass Storage that can be used with all PC Sync softwares. Cons: Easily stops working if any other app is accessing the card so usually you´ll need to restart your device to get it to work and even like that you will experience inconsistent results when connecting. Only mounts the external storage.
So we are moving forward but the holly grail isn't quite there yet... hope those apps help someone who is as disappointed on Android as I am.
SG USB Mass Storage Enabler
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2297888
working on N8020 with CM10.2
wwwcase said:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2297888
working on N8020 with CM10.2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Does not work with note 10.1 on stock based roms
I'm using Bitorrent Sync now, works great.

[Q] Accessing SDCARD from a computer

I tried the search, but it's down.
Anyone know if it's possible or a good alternative way to access files on your SDCARD from your computer?
Thanks
you only have a few options
the main 3: ADB, MTP, FTP.
There are issues with the drive not showing up. I'm having the same problem.
MTP=error
PTP= works, but is mostly useless.
Looking at http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2514396 now.
Edit: Simply removing my existing android device from device , along with the "delete driver" option fixed it. (windows 7)
I had the "universal adb driver v.72"
Noticed the Google driver has support for the nexus 5 as well.
https://developer.android.com/sdk/win-usb.html#top
Edit2: adb also works out of the box with the google driver.
WiFi File Transfer is a good alternative https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.smarterdroid.wififiletransfer&hl=nl. Airdroid is also a very good app for wireless file transfers.
Grab a ftp server to run on your phone is an alternative, but Wi-Fi transfer rates are often quite bad compared to usb.
I'm very satisfied with mtp, I nearly never transfer files between computer and phone.
.jond said:
I tried the search, but it's down.
Anyone know if it's possible or a good alternative way to access files on your SDCARD from your computer?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2518454
What version of windows. If it is a version without media center such as N mtp will NOT work. Same issue happened to me.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using xda app-developers app

usb stick not recognized on kit kat

I bought a adapter that allows me to hook up a USB stick to my maxx. It would recognize it on jb I could transfer files to and from it. I just tried it on kk and it doesn't recognize it anymore in storage. I tried every USB option in storage and nothing. Can anyone else confirm this.
bigv5150 said:
I bought a adapter that allows me to hook up a USB stick to my maxx. It would recognize it on jb I could transfer files to and from it. I just tried it on kk and it doesn't recognize it anymore in storage. I tried every USB option in storage and nothing. Can anyone else confirm this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, unfortunately Google disabled support for USB OTG (on the go) in 4.4, so you have to get an app to re-enable it such as USB Stick Plugin and companion app Total Commander
kuz142 said:
Yeah, unfortunately Google disabled support for USB OTG (on the go) in 4.4, so you have to get an app to re-enable it such as USB Stick Plugin and companion app Total Commander
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome I love when they disable useful stuff thanks for the heads up.
kuz142 said:
Yeah, unfortunately Google disabled support for USB OTG (on the go) in 4.4, so you have to get an app to re-enable it such as USB Stick Plugin and companion app Total Commander
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just want to confirm...after reading about these two apps, it looks like you don't need root on 4.4 to use these apps and be able to mount a USB drive/SD card adapter...correct?
Thx
Mark
Would this help with USB tethering?
Sent from my XT1080 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Slarti77 said:
Just want to confirm...after reading about these two apps, it looks like you don't need root on 4.4 to use these apps and be able to mount a USB drive/SD card adapter...correct?
Thx
Mark
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
bwheelies said:
Would this help with USB tethering?
Sent from my XT1080 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No idea I just know it works on a rooted phone I downloaded both pass and it works great.
Apps like Total Commander or Nexus Media Importer don't exactly mount the flash drive. You can access files off the flash drive, but as far as I know you can only access the files through the app. You're at the mercy of the app to let you open individual files in another app (e.g., through Total Commander you can open a movie file with DicePlayer).
But since the flash drive isn't really mounted in the normal file system, other apps can just go in and see all the files. This means media cataloging apps (e.g., Mizuu) and music players don't really work well.
This is a disappointing change. I'm not going to root my Droid Maxx over it, but I did root my Nexus 7 tablet largely to get around this limitation.
I switched to stick mount it let's you use any file app. All I need it for is transferring movies or music from my phone to USB and it works great.

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