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Apple Behind Intel's USB Competitor?

Posted by Soulskill on from the hopefully-they'll-come-up-with-a-less-goofy-name dept.

We recently discussed Light Peak, Intel's upcoming, optical interconnect technology that boasts data transfer rates of up to 10 Gbps. While some have speculated that Light Peak will directly compete with USB 3.0, Engadget has now unearthed information that indicates the idea for the technology originated from Apple, who apparently asked Intel to develop it. "According to documents we've seen and conversations we've had, Apple had reached out to Intel as early as 2007 with plans for an interoperable standard which could handle massive amounts of data and 'replace the multitudinous connector types with a single connector (FireWire, USB, Display interface).' ... Based on what we've learned, Apple will introduce the new standard for its systems around Fall 2010 in a line of Macs destined for back-to-school shoppers — a follow-up to the 'Spotlight turns to notebooks' event, perhaps. Following the initial launch, there are plans to roll out a low-power variation in 2011, which could lead to more widespread adoption in handhelds and cellphones. The plans from October 2007 show a roadmap that includes Light Peak being introduced to the iPhone / iPod platform to serve as a gateway for multimedia and networking outputs."

5 of 332 comments (clear)

  1. Put it on iPods by CharlyFoxtrot · · Score: 4, Funny

    Put it on iPods and it becomes ubiquitous almost immediately. They could charge extra for a usb cable or dock.

    --
    If all else fails, immortality can always be assured by spectacular error.
  2. Compete with who? by poptones · · Score: 4, Funny

    So you're saying Apple is behind this new technology coming from intel at their behest but it's all part of a scheme to devise a new technology that will get intel to compete with... intel?

    Man, you must REALLY think Steve Jobs is clever! Imagine, getting intel to go into competition with itself!

  3. Re:Transfer faster! by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 5, Funny

    Maybe you need to expand the collection. Even at 10Gbps, it would take me all day to transfer MY porn.

  4. Re:No power transfer.. by fuzzyfuzzyfungus · · Score: 4, Funny

    Don't worry, I'm sure monster cable will come out with a line of RF-shielded fiber for the most accurate transmission possible.

  5. Re:You keep using that phrase, "goes without sayin by node+3 · · Score: 4, Funny

    what you clearly meant to say was "bears repeating"

    Well, yeah. That goes without saying.