USB Promoter Group Announces Specifications For USB 4

The USB Promoter Group has announced the USB4 specification, an update to deliver the next generation USB architecture that compliments and builds on the existing USB 3.2 and USB 2.0 architectures. 

The USB 4 architecture is based on the Thunderbolt protocol specification recently contributed by Intel. It doubles the bandwidth of USB and enables multiple simultaneous data and display protocols.

The new USB4 architecture defines a method to share a single high-speed link with multiple end device types dynamically that best serves the transfer of data by type and application, according to Brad Saunders, USB Promoter Group chairman. As the USB Type-C connector has evolved into the role as the external display port of many host products, the USB 4 specification provides the host the ability to optimally scale allocations for display data flow. 

Even as the USB 4 specification introduces a new underlying protocol, compatibility with existing USB 3.2, USB 2.0 and Thunderbolt 3 hosts and devices is supported. The resulting connection scales to the best mutual capability of the devices being connected, Saunders says. He adds that key characteristics of the USB4 solution include:

• Two-lane operation using existing USB Type-C cables and up to 40 Gbps operation over 40 Gbps-certified cables;
  
• Multiple data and display protocols to efficiently share the total available bandwidth over the bus;
  
• Backward compatibility with USB 3.2, USB 2.0 and Thunderbolt 3.
  

With over 50 companies actively participating in the final stages of review of the draft specification, the USB 4 specification is on track to be published around the middle of 2019. Coincident with the release of the USB 4 specification, the release of an updated USB Type-C Specification will be made to comprehend USB 4 bus discovery, configuration and performance requirements.

Apple Releases An Apple Watch Magnetic Charger To USB-C Cable

Apple has released an  Apple Watch Magnetic Charger to USB-C Cable. It’s available now.

Here’s how Apple describes it: “We wanted to make charging your Apple Watch utterly effortless. So we arrived at a solution that combines our MagSafe technology with inductive charging. It’s a completely sealed system free of exposed contacts. And it’s very forgiving, requiring no precise alignment. You simply hold the connector near the back of the watch, where magnets cause it to snap into place automatically.”

Genki Adds Bluetooth Audio To The Nintendo Switch

Ever wanted to use wireless bluetooth headphones with your Nintendo Switch? The Kickstarter for Genki might just be the answer. It's a $39 USB-C Bluetooth dongle for the Nintendo Switch. You can pair two headsets to it, and apparently the whole setup shouldn't add much too lag (40ms) between what you see on screen and what you hear like a traditional Bluetooth audio signal would. One downside is that the Genki draws power from the Switch itself, which means if your battery goes low on a flight, you can't recharge the system and use the dongle simultaneously.

Because it uses the USB-C port, if you have the system docked and still want to use Genki's wireless audio (the Kickstarter page says 60 feet of range), you'll have to either pay an additional $10 for a USB dock adapter, or another $20 to get a Genki, adapter and passive stand.

Designer Human Things says that it'll be ready to ship by October. Genki has struck a chord with folks, though, with nearly 6,000 backers pledging $307,676 as of this writing. The original campaign goal was a paltry $30,000. But, while this project doesn't run the risk of not hitting the finish line, as we've seen  before.

It should be noted that Nintendo added USB audio support to the Switch in a firmware update. So, while you could back this, know that other options are available. Who knows maybe by the time this ships Nintendo will add native bluetooth audio to the switch. Thoughts ?

2018 iPhones Rumored To Ship With USB-C Power Adapters

Upcoming iPhones may ship with USB-C power adapters that come with USB-C to Lightning cables for faster charging, according to Chinese social network Weibo. The article, quoting unnamed supply chain sources, says Apple is planning to upgrade to USB-C support for all of its devices, shipping next-generation iPhones with a redesigned 18W power adapter that allows for USB-C fast charging with an included USB-C to Lightning cable. 

iPhone 8 Rumored To Have Curved OLED Screen And USB-C Port

According to The Wall Street Journal, the upcoming “iPhone 8” will have a curved OLED display and will ditch the Lightning port for a USB-C port. “Apple Inc. has decided to adopt a flexible display for one model of the new iPhone coming out this year and has ordered sufficient components to enable mass production, people familiar with the matter said,” according to WSJ. The article also says that reports that Apple will replace the Lightning connector with a USB-C port. All of the next iPhones are said to feature a "USB-C port for the power cord and other peripheral devices instead of the company's original Lightning connector,” according to WSJ. This would be a big step for Apple as they also choose to use they’re own proprietary connectors like lightning over what the rest of the industry is using, that being USB-C. Thoughts ? 

Nintendo Switch Rumored To Be Powered By USB-C

Laura Dale (reporter for Let’s Play Video Games) is reporting that the Nintendo Switch prototype is powered by USB-C. It should be noted that, the same source says that it can not be charged while the system is propped up on its kickstand. Whether that is just the prototype or not remains to be seen. If true, Nintendo going with USB-C is a good move by company. Thoughts ?

ASUS Announces First Portable Display With USB-C

ASUS has announced the first single-cable USB display that comes equipped with a USB Type-C port, allowing it to work with Apple's Retina MacBook and other USB-C machines. The MB196C+ portable display includes a 15.6-inch screen with a 1080p resolution. With the monitor's single USB-C cable, a Retina MacBook can power the display without the need for a second power cord. ASUS' MB169C+ is just 8.5mm thick and it weighs 1.8 pounds.  ASUS hasn't shared details on availability or pricing, but its retail cost may be similar to the prior MB168B+, which retails for $200 to $300. What do you think of ASUS’s new portable display ? 

iPad Pro Case Leaks Online, Suggests A Fall Release

Several new cases designed for Apple's “iPad Pro” have been leaked, and one in particular is far more detailed than any we’ve previously seen. Recent rumors point towards the iPad Pro's screen measuring between 12.2- and 12.9-inches, with the expected array of cutouts for the volume rockers, back-facing camera, lock button, and a charging port. The newly leaked cases have cutouts for all of these features, including what appear to be speakers at both the top and bottom of the device, in line with previous rumors surrounding the tablet. The new cases also include the mysterious cutout on the left side of the device. Some previous rumored cases have included the cutout, with rumors variously suggesting it could be for a SIM-card tray on cellular models, a second Lightning port, or perhaps a USB-C port. The latest rumors say that the iPad Pro will have a triple-core A8X processor, 2 GB of RAM, Touch ID, and possibly shipping with a first-party Apple manufactured stylus accessory. A release date is unknown but rumors suggest production could begin in September, setting up for an October launch alongside a refresh of the existing iPad lineup.