New MBA to get bi-directional USB 3.1, iPhone to follow suit

Dec 23, 2014 11:04 GMT  ·  By

An all-new MacBook Air computer set to enter the market next year is likely to be the first Apple product to incorporate a bi-directional USB 3.1 standard, something that we might even see expanded to the company’s other hot-selling gizmos, including the profitable iPhone line.

The tidbit stems from a Chinese-language Commercial Times report that discusses a partnership between Fresco Logic, a fabless semiconductor company focused on USB connectivity solutions, and IC design service provider Faraday Technology.

The duo have reportedly joined forces to make a 55nm USB 3.1 host controller “...which will be adopted by Apple in its upcoming 12-inch Macbook Air,” reads a translated version of the report. The news isn’t surprising, considering Apple’s intricate plans with the all-new computer.

Specs leaked so far

What we know so far about the 12-inch MacBook Air is this:

It will have a Retina display measuring 12 inches on the diagonal offering a crisp viewing experience of everything from photos and movies to games and office tools. It will feature a redesigned body: the chassis will be thinner and lighter, and there’s a rumor that the trackpad will no longer click. The thinness might actually require the new USB plugs, especially the Type-C one for charging. It will also have Intel Broadwell chips visibly faster than existing CPUs.

USB 3.1 across all devices by 2017

Apple might be required to adopt the new standard in iDevices to appease the EU Commission, and other regulatory bodies. On Mar 15, 2014, we reported that the European Parliament had come to an agreement that a directive involving standard chargers worldwide should pass, and a law be instated.

The directive reportedly passed with 550 votes in favor, 12 against, and 8 abstentions, essentially twisting Apple’s arm to use a standard charger by 2017.

European parliament negotiator Barbara Weiler said at the time, “I am especially pleased that we agreed on the introduction of a common charger. It will put an end to charger clutter and 51,000 tons of electronic waste annually.”

Apple won’t be hard pressed to make any changes next year, and perhaps not even the year after that. However, come 2017, the Cupertino company will be obligated by law to abolish its proprietary Lightning connector in all devices, big and small.

The 12-inch MacBook Air is expected to launch in Apple’s second fiscal quarter of 2015, in spring.

USB 3.1 connectors (4 Images)

USB 3.1 connectors
I/O connectorUSB Type-C
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