The USB Promoter Group has announced the pending release of the USB4 specification that builds on the existing USB 3.2 and USB 2.0 architectures and is based on Intel’s Thunderbolt protocol.
USB4 boasts a two-lane operation using existing USB Type-C cables with higher data transfers of up to 40 Gbps over 40 Gbps-certified cables. It also supports multiple data and display protocols to efficiently share the total available bandwidth over the bus, USB Power Delivery, and backward compatibility with USB 3.2, USB 2.0 and Thunderbolt 3.
Intel recently contributed the Intel Thunderbolt protocol specification to the USB Promoter Group to enable other chip makers to build Thunderbolt compatible silicon, royalty-free.
“Releasing the Thunderbolt protocol specification is a significant milestone for making today’s simplest and most versatile port available to everyone,” said Jason Ziller, General Manager, Client Connectivity Division at Intel. “By collaborating with the USB Promoter Group, we’re opening the doors for innovation across a wide range of devices and increasing compatibility to deliver better experiences to consumers.”
“USB4’s high throughput and advanced features enable new scenarios in consumer, enterprise, and intelligent edge markets, while maintaining interoperability with existing USB and Thunderbolt 3 devices,” said Roanne Sones, Corporate Vice President, Microsoft OS Platforms. “We are excited to work with our partners in the ecosystem to bring USB4 to market and showcase its benefits.”
source: USB Promoter Group, Intel
