Next generation USB will be reversible

The USB or Universal Serial Bus is probably the most popular type of plug today. From phones, tablets, PCs, cameras and more, USB is there. Fresh from the USB 3.1 update, the creators of the USB is taking it a step further.

The USB 3.0 Promoter Group announced the USB Type-C connector which will be built on existing USB 3.1 and USB 2.0 technologies. This should give way for thinner and sleeker designs of devices, enhanced usability and should light up the future of USB.

The key characteristics of the USB Type-C as stated on the press release:

* An entirely new design tailored to work well with emerging product designs
* New smaller size – similar in size to the existing USB 2.0 Micro-B
* Usability enhancements – users will no longer need to be concerned with plug
orientation/cable direction, making it easier to plug in
* The Type-C connector and cable will support scalable power charging
* Scalability – the connector design will scale for future USB bus performance

Bad news is, the new plug will not be directly compatible with existing cables and ports but adapters will be designed as well. The USB Type-C is aimed for industry review around the first quarter next year and shall be completed by the middle of 2014.

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