Intel Unveils 4K ‘Nirvana’ With Thunderbolt 3 USB-C Connector

Intel is adopting the USB-C port style with its Thunderbolt technology, with a new connector that claims to be one of the fastest, most versatile connections to any dock, display or device in the world.

Called Thunderbolt 3, the connection is part of a new breed of USB connections that are optimised for high-speed usage.

Both Apple and Google have used USB-C ports in their new laptops this year, but until now, Intel had yet to embrace the USB-C style port with Thunderbolt technology.

Thunderbolt 3

“If you’re a business professional, content creator, gamer, or just want to simplify your 4K workspace, your world is about to get faster and simpler,” said Intel.

The cable boasts transfer speeds of up to 40Gbps, compared to the 10Gbps data transfer speeds of USB 3.0, and also provides up to 100W of USB power delivery. At this speed, Intel said you can transfer a movie in 4K resolution in less than 30 seconds.

The USB-C connector can support two 4K 60 Hz displays, and allows video gamers to connect to plug ‘n’ play external graphics to a laptop to play games at higher graphics settings.

“Thunderbolt 3 is computer port nirvana – delivering two 4K displays, fast data, and quick notebook charging”, said Navin Shenoy, vice president in Client Computing Group at Intel. “It fulfills the promise of USB-C for single-cable docking and so much more. OEMs and device developers are going to love it.”

Thunderbolt 3 is expected to start shipping towards the end of 2015.

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