Although the USB-IF Alliance stated that the current USB4 2.0 specificationIt can already achieve the same functions as Thunderbolt 5The difference is that the former still allows manufacturers to decide which functions to use, while the latter is mandatory to add all functions and add Intel product certification. As for the USB-IF Alliance specification being too flexible, resulting in inconsistent USB connection specifications in the market, Microsoft plans toWindows Hardware Compatibility Program (WHCP) specifications, so that all Windows PC devices equipped with USB-C ports can support display output, charging, and at least 5Gbps data transmission bandwidth.
Microsoft believes that although the specifications proposed by the USB-IF Alliance have considerable design flexibility, they also lead to the market still having many USB ports and transmission cable designs with different specifications. As a result, although most cables are currently connected through the USB-C interface, their actual corresponding charging wattage, connection function and transmission bandwidth are actually different.
To improve this usage dilemma, Microsoft said it will use its Windows Hardware Compatibility Program to ensure that the USB-C ports on all Windows PC devices can at least support charging, display output, and data transmission bandwidth of more than 5Gbps.
Microsoft's intention is obviously to improve the consistency of the current USB-C connection specifications by leveraging the overall market share of Windows PCs to avoid user experience gaps.
In Microsoft's plan, all USB-C ports must include charging capabilities with a power of at least 4.5W and the ability to connect at least one external monitor. They must also have a data transmission bandwidth of at least 5Gbps. However, there is no requirement to have transmission speeds of 1080Gbps, 2080Gbps, 4080Gbps or 80Gbps, or specific USB-PD high-wattage power supply specifications. In addition, there is no mandatory requirement that all USB-C ports can support connecting external PCI Express devices (such as external graphics card boxes).
This means that Microsoft's specifications require that the USB-C port on a Windows PC device at least have the same or higher specifications as Intel Thunderbolt 3.
At the same time, the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program will provide automated testing tools that allow OEMs to confirm that their Windows PC devices are fully compatible with the Windows operating system and can fully use the built-in USB drivers in Windows.
Microsoft said that it will continue to cooperate with Intel on Thunderbolt 4 and Thunderbolt 5 specifications, and Intel will provide relevant certification.
