At Computex we had the opportunity to speak with Jeff Ravencraft, President and COO of the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF). In the interview, he answered our questions about the latest USB developments and their importance for consumers and the industry.
USB4 version 2.0
In an interview with us, Ravencraft first emphasized how increased USB bandwidth will improve the end-user experience. USB4 version 2.0 will be introduced Up to 120 Gbps Increased bandwidth More powerful display Make it possible. In general, high performance where it is needed ensures a good consumer experience.
Simple branding
Regarding criticism of the multiple USB naming changes, Ravencraft explained that USB-IF learned from industry feedback, press and consumer research: Branding needs to be kept simple. Accordingly, the Brand management simplifiedTo reduce consumer confusion.
It now focuses on communicating data performance and (power) performance rather than specifying technical specifications. The USB-IF president hopes that there will be more cables with clearer logos in the future.
Thunderbolt and USB
When asked about competing developments between USB and Intel’s Thunderbolt, Ravencraft replied that although USB 4 is based on Thunderbolt 3, USB 4 and Thunderbolt 4 are now virtually identical. The main difference is that to use the Thunderbolt brand, manufacturers must implement some optional USB features. when it USB4 different power levels Available, Thunderbolt always makes full use of the interface’s possibilities.
Up to 240 watts with USB PD 3.1
About its new capabilities USB Power Delivery 3.1 (240 W) Ravencraft explained that more devices are likely to switch to USB-C as their primary power source. European Union legislation and the consideration of other countries such as Brazil, India, Korea and even the US to support the USB Type-C and PD standards play an important role in this.
Chinese smartphone manufacturers still rely on proprietary charging methods instead of USB PD 3.1. According to Ravencraft, this is likely due to competition in the industry and the desire to gain a competitive advantage.
Still, he believes the global trend to support unified standards such as power delivery will make it difficult for such companies to deviate from these standards in the long run. They will probably continue to use their own solutions for now, but will support USB-PD at least to a certain level. You can see the full statement of some of the interview questions in the embedded video.
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