Intel introduces the new Thunderbolt 4, redefining the world of efficient and simple PC connectivity

Intel has unveiled new details about Thunderbolt™ 4, its next-generation universal cable connectivity solution, which aims to increase minimum performance requirements, expand functionality, and better meet USB4 specification requirements. Thunderbolt 4 will be groundbreaking in offering docking stations with up to four Thunderbolt ports and up to 2 meters of universal cable. Thunderbolt 4 will be integrated for the first time in the fall with the latest Intel mobile processor platform (codenamed Tiger Lake) PC products.

Intel also announced the Thunderbolt 4 Controller 8000 Series, which is compatible with hundreds of millions of PCS and related accessories with Thunderbolt 3 ports. Thunderbolt 4 Developer kits and certification tests are now available.

"Thunderbolt provides consumers with the leading connectivity standard for a wide range of devices, helping to improve the computing experience with simplicity via USB Type-C and delivering outstanding performance and reliability benefits. The arrival of Thunderbolt 4 demonstrates how Intel is leading the PC ecosystem toward a truly universal connectivity solution." Jason Ziller, general manager of Intel Client Connectivity

Why it's important: Thunderbolt products deliver consistent, industry-leading functionality, connecting computers to data and video via a single USB Type-C port and providing easy power. Users can connect a powerful Thunderbolt docking station, display, fast storage, or various USB accessories for a neat workspace. To ensure a consistent best-in-class experience and easy compatibility across product types and manufacturers, Intel works closely with the computer ecosystem, accessories, and cable partners to provide mandatory certification for all Thunderbolt products.

Ben Thacker, vice president and general manager of Kensington, said: "We believe Thunderbolt 4 will be a turning point for PC and Mac accessory manufacturers, helping them deliver an industry-leading set of product features and a consistent user experience. Thunderbolt 4's technological advancements will help Kensington redefine the modern workspace of the future."

Jerry Paradise, vice President, Commercial Products, Lenovo PC & Smart Devices Group, said: "With new features and minimum requirements, Thunderbolt 4 will provide IT customers and end users with the great experience they need and improve their productivity. "Lenovo looks forward to working with Intel to expand our support for Thunderbolt by introducing PCS with Thunderbolt 4 ports and expanding our Thunderbolt component portfolio."

Advantage: Thunderbolt 4 builds on the innovations of Thunderbolt 3 to deliver a truly universal cable connection experience. Thunderbolt 4 offers a 40 Gb/ s connection rate for data, video, and power over a single connection. It is a very comprehensive Thunderbolt specification to date, conforming to a wide range of industry standard specifications, including USB4, DisplayPort, and PCI Express (PCIe), and is fully compatible with previous Thunderbolt and USB products. Thunderbolt 4 certification requirements include:

● Compared to Thunderbolt 3, the minimum PC video specification and minimum PC data specification requirements are doubled.
-Video: Supports two 4K displays or one 8K display.
-Data: PCIe transfer speeds of up to 32 Gb/ s and storage transfer speeds of up to 3,000 MB/ s.

● Supports docking stations with up to 4 Thunderbolt 4 ports.

● The PC can be charged on at least one computer port .

● After connecting to the Thunderbolt dock station, wake the computer from sleep by touching the keyboard or mouse.

● Direct Memory Access (DMA) protection based on Intel VT-d is required to block physical DMA attacks.

When it's available: Later this year, Intel will offer an all-new Thunderbolt 4 controller 8000 series that includes:

● JHL8540 and JHL8340 host controllers for computer manufacturers

● JHL8440 device controller for accessory manufacturers