Intel has demonstrated an early prototype of its next-generation Thunderbolt in working condition that complies with the USB 4 v2 specification just released by the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF). The next generation Thunderbolt will offer 80 gigabits per second (Gbps) bidirectional bandwidth.
It will also offer up to 120 Gbps for good viewing experience, offering up to three times the capacity of today’s technologies to meet the growing needs of content creators and gamers, while maintaining compatibility with previous versions of Thunderbolt and USB.
Next-gen Thunderbolt offers three times more capacity
This prototype demonstration marks an important milestone in the journey to bring the next generation of Thunderbolt to industry. Bandwidth needs of creators and gamers; for high-resolution displays, low-latency visuals, and for backing up or transferring massive video and data files.
The next generation of Thunderbolt will offer up to three times the capacity of Thunderbolt 4, making content creation and gaming more efficient and immersive.
Next-generation Thunderbolt will include improvements in several areas as well as support for the latest version of USB 4:
- Doubling the total bandwidth of Thunderbolt 4, i.e. 80Gbps, while providing up to triple the bandwidth for video-intensive uses, i.e. 120 Gbps.
- Newly released DisplayPort 2.1 support for the best viewing experience
- Twice the PCI Express transfer rate for faster storage and external graphics.
- Ability to work with existing passive cables up to 1 meter with a new signaling technology
- Compatibility with previous versions of Thunderbolt, USB and DisplayPort
- Supported by Intel’s activation and certification programs
How Thunderbolt is Driving the Industry
Adopting the vision of making Thunderbolt available to everyone, Intel submitted the Thunderbolt protocol specification, which forms the basis of USB4, to the USB Promoter Group in 2019. Intel, the leader in this industry group, has worked to take USB4’s performance to the next level.
Intel has been leading the industry in I/O innovation for a very long time. Intel works closely with PC, accessory and cable partners to deliver the most advanced and complete wired connectivity solution through dedicated enablement and testing programs.
All Thunderbolt products pass rigorous certification tests, and after passing these tests, they can use the Thunderbolt name and logo royalty-free on devices or in marketing.
That’s why the Thunderbolt logo provides a simple and easily recognizable indication of the best wired connectivity solutions for computers and accessories.
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