Microsoft wants to use Windows 11 to end USB 4 inconsistencies

When it was announced, the USB 4 standard brought the promise to offer a consistent user experience to all users. However, as Microsoft points out, this is not something that has been happening and not all connections of the type behave the same way. To solve this problem, The company intends to use the power that Windows 11 has granted it.

On May 30, the company said it will use the operating system as the basis for a new hardware compatibility system. The intention of the company is to ensure that manufacturers that offer factory software will have to fulfill some promises that accompanied the launch of the standard.

• All of them should be able to load devices, transfer data at high speed, and connect to multiple displays;
• In addition, USB 4 connections need to be compatible with Thunderbolt peripherals;
• USB 4 connections should deliver up to 240 W of power, up to 80 Gbps bandwidth and compatibility with the Port Alt Mode display, display port and PCIE tunneling.

According to the company, the problem of the USB 4 standard is the fact that Not all connectors are created equallyand there is no obligation that a standard will be followed. “The promise of ‘Universal’ at Universal Serial Bus (USB) only meets user expectations if all connections deliver a consistent experience, regardless of the implementation choices of laptop manufacturers”Explains Ugan S., Senior Product Manager.

Windows 11 will require minimal USB 4 port requirements

Through a New Windows 11 hardware compatibility program (WHCP)Microsoft will press manufacturers to meet some minimum requirements. While issues such as bandwidth can vary, the company will require all standard connections to load devices, transfer data and activate at least two 4K to 60 Hz displays.

In addition, the company will also work with stamps that better identify the resources offered by USB 3 and USB 4 ports. Thus, consumers will know how their devices will work even before connecting their accessories to them – regardless of the manufacturer brand or launch year.

Microsoft states that it has prepared the rules of its new WhCP based on consumer -collected telemetry. She also created a new Windows Laboratory Kit (HLK), which is sent to partners so that they can do their own tests. To top it off, updates sent via Windows Update must ensure performance improvements even without the need to buy new hardware.

Source: Microsoft Blog