Intel Leads Industry Forward with Next-Generation Thunderbolt™

Recently, Intel showed an early prototype of the next-generation Thunderbolt™, which conforms to the USB4 v2 specification released today by the USB-IF organization (USB Implementers Forum). Next-generation Thunderbolt will provide 80Gbps bi-directional bandwidth, video or data transfer up to 120Gbps, bringing a superior display experience, three times the speed of 40Gbps provided by Thunderbolt 4, and can meet the growing needs of content creators and gamers while meeting the growing needs of gamers , compatible with previous versions of Thunderbolt and USB interface standards.

Intel is the industry pioneer and leader in wired connectivity solutions, and Thunderbolt has become the mainstream port on mobile PCs today and has been integrated into the previous 3 generations of Intel mobile processors. We are excited to lead the industry together with the next generation of Thunderbolt based on the USB4 v2 specification and to work with other members of the USB Promotion Group to advance USB. --Jason Ziller, General Manager, Client Connectivity Group, Intel

This prototype demonstration of Thunderbolt technology is another important milestone in innovation in the Thunderbolt industry. Content creators and gamers are increasingly demanding not only high-resolution monitors, lower-latency visuals, but also higher bandwidth for backup or transfer of large video and data files. The next-generation Thunderbolt will deliver three times the 40Gbps transmission capacity of Thunderbolt™ 4, creating a more efficient and immersive experience for creating and gaming. In addition to supporting the latest version of USB4, the next generation of Thunderbolt will include improvements in several areas, including:

• On the basis of Thunderbolt 4's 40Gbps bandwidth, the total bandwidth is doubled to 80Gbps, and the bandwidth can be increased up to 3 times to 120Gbps for video-intensive applications.

• Support the newly released DisplayPort 2.1, bringing users a better display experience.

• Double the PCI Express data throughput for faster storage and higher external graphics performance.

• Supports existing passive cables up to 1 meter with new signaling technology.

• Compatible with previous versions of Thunderbolt, USB and DisplayPort.

• Take advantage of the Intel Support and Certification Program.

In order to make Thunderbolt an advanced connectivity technology available to all, Intel contributed the Thunderbolt protocol to the USB Promotion Organization in 2019 as the basis for USB4. As a key member of this industry-leading group, Intel is committed to continuously taking USB4 performance to even higher levels.

Intel continues to lead the industry in I/O innovation. Intel works closely with PC, accessory and cable partners to deliver more advanced and complete wired connectivity solutions through expert technical support and testing programs. Thunderbolt products undergo rigorous validation testing prior to royalty-free use of the Thunderbolt name and logo in equipment or marketing. The simple, easy-to-recognize Thunderbolt logo indicates that the PC and accessories are the best wired connectivity solution.

In 2023, we will reveal more details on the official brand name, features and performance of the next generation of Thunderbolt.