SanDisk has launched the iXpand Flash Drive, a portable storage device compatible with iOS devices, in India. The iXpand Flash Drive has a regular USB plug and can be used with PCs like any other flash drive, but it also has a Lightning connector so that files can be accessed on iPhones and iPads.
SanDisk is looking to take advantage of the fact that
Apple devices do not have expandable storage. According to the company, users often run out of space after shooting videos and downloading apps. Files stored on the drive can be accessed through Sandisk's iXpand Sync app.
The iXpand Flash Drive will be available in four capacities: 16GB for Rs. 4,490; 32GB for Rs. 5,990; 64GB for Rs. 7,990 and 128GB for Rs. 11,490. It is compatible with iPhones and iPads that have Lightning connectors, and requires iOS 7 or above.
The company points out that it not only allows users to carry more data than their devices can store onboard, but also makes transferring files easier than using iTunes. The iXpand Sync app can natively play audio and video files, including formats that iOS does not recognise including AVI and WMV. Photos and videos from the iOS camera roll can be imported and backed up to the removable device. Files can also be protected with a password.
The iXpand Flash Drive has a metal body and flexible arm for the Lightning connector so that it can be used even with devices in protective cases.
SanDisk has also announced a new version of its
Ultra Dual USB Flash Drive which supports USB 3.0 speeds when used on PCs with its full-sized USB connector. The device also has a Micro-USB connector for use with Android and Windows devices which support USB On-The-Go (OTG) via their Micro-USB ports.
The Ultra Dual USB Drive 3.0 will be available in capacities ranging from 16GB to 64GB, with prices ranging from Rs. 1,099 to Rs. 3,049. A version with a
USB Type-C connector instead of Micro-USB will be available worldwide later this year.