just bought new MacBook Air - no more USB ports on the side?

I was surprised to see there are no places to plug in my portable back up USB wire thing. How am I supposed to back up my files to my new laptop? My old MacBook was purchased in 2010 and I was told to buy the Time Machine to back up my files for when I buy a new computer. Now that I have, an Apple product is outdated. I even purchased the G Drive 1 TB maybe two years ago and that doesn't fit in either.

*** How do I upload my phone pics to "Photos"? I have the XS model and the metal thing at the end of the white cord does not fit in the left side of my new MacBook Air. ***

My Genius Bar appointment is next week but I am a little surprised and so curious. Can someone please advise? Thank you in advance.