For a rocky couple of years in the 2010s, smartphone ports were a bit of a free-for-all. While Apple used Lightning, Android devices did another. Eventually, mobile devices reached an accord, and it is a safe bet that smartphones made during this decade are fitted with a USB-C port.

This universal connector offers more consistency and creative uses. Beyond wired charging, a smartphone can provide power to wireless headphones or a smartwatch. You can also connect flash drives or memory card readers, which is vital for photographers or videographers working with large files. For those needing a mobile workstation, USB-C allows you to connect wired keyboards or external displays via an HDMI adapter.

Content creators can utilize high-quality microphones, while gamers can connect controllers like the Backbone One or Razer Kishi to reduce latency. Even specialized tools, such as endoscopes or ultrasound devices, can be powered by a smartphone, proving the port's immense versatility for professionals in various fields.