A thin, rectangular flash drive, roughly the size and shape of a credit card, offers portable data storage. These devices often feature a USB connector that can be extended for use and retracted for storage, protecting the connector and allowing the drive to fit easily into wallets or pockets. An example would be a device containing flash memory chips and a USB-A connector, designed to be carried in a wallet alongside payment cards.
The convenient form factor of such storage devices offers significant advantages for users needing to transport data readily. Their compact design makes them highly portable, and the resemblance to payment cards ensures they are less likely to be misplaced than standard USB drives. This type of portable storage emerged as a response to the increasing need for individuals to carry larger amounts of data while maintaining portability and convenience. They represent a step in the evolution of portable storage, moving beyond bulkier designs to prioritize ease of carrying and integration with everyday items.