Next gen reversible USB TYPE-C released
August 13, 2014
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Almost two years after Apple released its proprietary reversible Lightning data transfer bus and power cable, the USB 3.0 Promoter Group, has revealed the details of its own new reversible high-speed cable and connector system.
The group today released its new USB Type-C specification, defining the next generation of USB connector for implementers and developers.
It said that the new configuration establishes a cable and connector system tailored for the sleek profiles of mobile device designs, yet remaining robust enough for laptops.
With the openings for the new connector measuring 8.4mm by 2.6mm, it is not far from the size of the current micro USB 2.0 Type-B connectors — which are found on most non-Apple smartphones.
The new cable and connector supports USB 3.1 "SuperSpeed" 10 Gbps data transference and USB power delivery of up to 100 watts, according to the group, which is comprised of HP, Intel, Microsoft, Renesas Electronics, STMicroelectronics, and Texas Instruments.
Why does USB Type-C matter?
USB Type-C is significant for a few reasons. Firstly, it is much slimmer than current USB connectors, which will allow for the creation of slimmer devices. Secondly, USB Type-C will be able to work with laptops, smartphones, and tablets as well.
Plus, they’ll be able to deliver 100 watts of power, and be capable of transmitting 10GBps of data. In short, USB Type-C could signal the beginning of the end for the bulky power bricks that are commonly associated with PC laptops.
“Interest in the USB Type-C connector has not only been global, but cross-industry as well,” Brad Saunders, the Chairman of the USB 3.0 Promoter Group says. “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.”
When will USB Type-C devices arrive?
This development, in conjunction with innovations elsewhere like the creation of Intel’s fanless Core M processor, could pave the way for super-slim tech gear to hit the market in the not-so-distant future. When Digital Trends spoke with a representative from the USB 3.0 Promoter Group, we were told that devices that are USB Type-C ready could arrive “by early 2015.”