The USB Promotors Group has finished developing the design and specifications for the
plug and port. The Type-C connector will replace the Type-B connector (microUSB) found in most modern mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets.
One of the key aspects of the Type-C connector is that it is reversible and can be inserted either way (much like Apple’s Lightning connector). The Type-C connector will support USB 3.1, providing for theoretical data transfer speeds of up to 10Gbps, and 100W of power for charging batteries.
According to the USB Promoters Group, USB Type-C will be fast and powerful enough for laptops, in addition to smartphones and tablets. The Type-C connector will not be compatible with existing USB ports, but the USB Promoters Group claims an extensive array of adapters will be made available during its introduction.
It’s unclear how long it will take hardware manufacturers to adopt the new standard, but the USB Promoters Group is already offering companies the technical details they need to get started.
