Intel released "Thunderbolt 5" initial standard: bandwidth up to 80Gbps, data transfer speed 2 times faster, support dual 8K external displays
Brocent Oct. 20 - Intel today previewed the next-generation Thunderbolt standard (tentatively called Thunderbolt 5), which will enable ultra-fast data transfer speeds for future Mac and Windows devices, among others, as well as improved external display support in standards to be introduced in 2023 or later.
Next-generation Thunderbolt will provide up to 80Gbps of bi-directional bandwidth, enabling future data transfers between computer devices and external storage drives that support the standard to be up to two times faster than today's speeds. Next-generation Thunderbolt will also add a new mode that provides up to 120Gbps bandwidth for external displays, which will enable computer devices to support dual 8K displays at 60Hz
This prototype demonstration marks an important milestone in the journey to deliver the next generation of Thunderbolt to the industry. The bandwidth demands of content creators and gamers for high-resolution displays, low-latency visuals, and backing up or transferring huge video and data files are increasing dramatically. Next-generation Thunderbolt will deliverup to three times the power of Thunderbolt 4 and make creation and gaming more efficient and immersive. In addition to supporting the latest version of USB4, next-generation Thunderbolt will support improvements in a variety of areas, including
Two times the total bandwidth of Thunderbolt 4 at 80Gbps, while providing up to three times the bandwidth for video-intensive use at 120Gbps.
- Support for the newly released DisplayPort 2.1 for the best display experience.
- Twice the PCI Express data throughput for faster storage and external graphics
- Up to 1 meter with new signaling technology for use with existing passive cables
- Compatible with previous versions of Thunderbolt, USB and DisplayPort
- Supported by Intel's licensing and certification program.
That is, next-generation Thunderbolt is based on the newly released USB4 version 2.0 and DisplayPort 2.1 specifications, and is backward compatible with previous versions of Thunderbolt, USB, and DisplayPort. Intel plans to share more details on the official name, features and functionality of next-generation Thunderbolt in 2023.
Intel contributed its Thunderbolt protocol specification to the USB Promoter Group in 2019 as the foundation for USB4. As a leader in this industry group, Intel has been working to extend the performance of USB4 to new levels.
Intel has a long history of leading I/O innovation. Intel works closely with PC, accessory and cable partners to deliver the most advanced and complete wired connectivity solutions through dedicated enablement and testing programs. All Thunderbolt products are subject to rigorous certification testing, which allows the Thunderbolt name and logo to be used free of charge on devices or in marketing. the Thunderbolt logo provides a simple, easily identifiable indicator of the best wired connectivity solutions for PCs and accessories.
Brocent has learned that Apple's 2021 models of the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro are equipped with Thunderbolt 4 / USB 4 ports with up to 40Gbps bandwidth.
No Mac currently supports plug-and-play 8K displays. 2021 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models support up to two or three external displays at up to 6K@60Hz, depending on whether the laptop is configured with an M1 Pro or M1 Max chip.