14 DAY TRIAL // After the industry bandwagon went forward in adopting the new USB-C with Google and Apple going first in this direction, Intel was the only company that was lagging behind, supporting the classic Thunderbolt connector.
Although a very efficient and useful data transfer cable, offering high transfer speeds and being able to steadily stream 20Gbps of data, enough to power one 4K screen, Intel customers always had problems with interchangeability between Thunderbolt and non-Thunderbolt wires and ports.
Fortunately, this decision has been changed with the announcement that Thunderbolt 3 will also be sporting the now ominous USB-C connector, keeping the much promised and advertised 40 Gbps transfer speed.
To have its customers easily distinguish the new USB-C Thunderbolt from the older ones, Intel has decided to place a small lighting symbol just above the connector. Also to boost its normal USB-C performance, Intel has mentioned that Thunderbolt 3's speeds will be higher than those of other USB-C connectors thanks to the electronics integrated in the wire itself.
Enough data stream speed to help display two 4K screens
In addition, Intel has boasted that the new Thunderbolt 3 will be able to stream not one but two 4K screens and one 5K screen with its 40Gbps of data speed, evidently doubling the capacity of the previous Thunderbolts.
Impressive as it may sound, Intel has unveiled that it will not be backwards compatible with the previous Thunderbolts, except when using an adapter. Unfortunately, the speeds will be limited by the previous connector versions.
Finally, the welcoming new change by Intel will probably rock some boats back at Apple and Google, as the incredible speeds granted by the new USB-C connector will simply dwarf everything that Apple and Google are offering, and will probably become a new favorite among professionals who will always spend a good buck for a fast wire in times of need.
The new Thunderbolt 3 will probably start shipping around the end of the year and make its definitive mark in 2016.