A newly designed USB port and cable is about to make its way to upcoming PCs, Laptops and mobile devices. The USB 3.0 Promoter Group today announced the completion of the USB Type-C spec which will allow new devices to have far slimmer USB cables and connectors. The connector will also support SuperSpeed USB 10 Gbps (USB 3.1) and USB Power Delivery up to 100W.
“Interest in the USB Type-C connector has not only been global, but cross-industry as well,” said Brad Saunders, USB 3.0 Promoter Group Chairman. “Representatives from the PC, mobile, automotive and IoT industries have been knocking down our door anticipating this new standard. This specification is the culmination of an extensive, cooperative effort among industry leaders to standardize the next generation USB connector as a long-lasting, robust solution.”
The design of connector is completely new and has a strong resemblance to the old USB 2.0 Micro-B connections which were far slimmer than general USB 2.0. Even better news for those of us who always struggle putting USB cables into the back of our computers is that it will have reversible plug orientation and cable direction.
“USB has the luxury of consumer familiarity and trust, and as we adapt the technology for the future we are committed to ensuring the USB brand promise continues with this new USB Type-C connector and cable,” said Jeff Ravencraft, USB-IF President and COO. “The USB-IF is working to establish certification and compliance testing so that consumers can have the same confidence in the next generation of certified USB technology.”
It won’t be long before devices start to show up making use of the Type-C connector, although many of us will need to make use of upcoming adapters to allow us to use the new connector with existing products.
Source: USB.org