In the left navigation menu, you should see the gadget (like “SD Card”) listed.

If you opt for gadget, you’ll see all of the contents of this gadget.

Once you do this, you’ll see the machine disappear from the left navigation menu.

Screenshot of opening the Files app on Chromebook

Now it’s safe to remove the physical flash drive from your Chromebook.

The only difference is that the unit name that appears in the left navigation menu will be slightly different.

Once it’s gone, you’re able to safely remove the thumb drive from your Chromebook.

Screenshot of browsing USB flash drive on Chromebook

Screenshot of USB thumb drive connected to Chromebook