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Intel and Apple’s Thunderbolt data transfer format could soon be a bullet-point on your new PC’s tech spec sheet, with Intel reportedly preparing to launch a PC version of the adaptable daisy-chain interface next spring.
According to the usual tech sources, Intel is planning to introduce the feature alongside its next generation 22nm “Ivy Bridge” processors, in a slightly bizarre attempt to compete with the USB 3.0 format that’s surely already the next-gen data transfer format of choice for most PC users — and is also supported by the Ivy Bridge range.
Despite arriving exclusively on high-end Apple devices at the moment, it’s actually Intel that owns the right to Thunderbolt tech — so there’s nothing stopping us all getting an exciting new hole to play with on our desktops and laptops. [Techradar]
You say “high-end” Apple products, yet Thunderbolt is on Apple’s cheapest desktop, the Mini, and their cheapest laptop, the MBA, but it isn’t on the Pro, which is the most expensive mac.
If you don’t have a HDD or SDD with fast enough read and write speeds it’s pointless. Will just cause end users more money for something they will never see the advantages for.
I doubt the additional circuitry would add much to the price of a system. Also, it’s not just for plain old copying files; you can plug other stuff like monitors into it if it’s anything like Apple’s version.
The daisy-chain thing is quite nice too.
I have a verbatim external USB 3.0 hard drive and that thing flies, I can’t see the need for anything faster myself!
Are you really unable to imagine a situation whereby someone may require as fast a speed as possible? Perhaps backing up a whole OS and it’s contents quickly?