USB-IF Simplifies USB Branding
- Paul Thurrott
- Oct 01, 2022
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The USB Implementers Forum revealed that it will simplify the branding for all existing and coming versions of the specification. This includes the recently announced USB4 Version 2.0, which will now go by a different name.
“USB-IF aims to make all certified USB cables, chargers, and other devices easily identifiable,” the USB-IF notes. “USB-IF reminds you to purchase compliant products from trusted sources that display USB-IF certified logos on packaging, in product briefs, or on the cable or device itself.”
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Doing such a thing will soon be easier: gone is the SuperSpeed branding that arrived with USB 3.0 and was then splintered into three different sub-brands ahead of the shift to USB4 (which, yes, removed the space between “USB” and the version number). Now, USB brands will simply reflect the speed at which the product operates.
What this means is that USB 3.2 Gen 2 will now be called USB 10Gbps, USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 will be USB 20Gbps, and USB4 will be USB 40Gbps. USB4 Version 2.0 will presumably be rebranded as USB 80Gbps.
“USB4 Version 1.0, USB Version 2.0, USB 3.2, SuperSpeed Plus, Enhanced SuperSpeed, and SuperSpeed+ are defined in the USB specifications; however, these terms are [no longer] intended to be used in product names, messaging, packaging, or any other consumer-facing content,” the USB-IF notes in its new guidelines. “Vendors must clearly communicate the performance signaling that a product delivers in the product’s packaging, advertising content, and any other marketing materials.”