There's ANOTHER Version of USB 4

The video introduces USB 4 version 2, emphasizing that this is not a named upgrade like USB 5 but a refreshed protocol with significantly higher potential bandwidth. It explains that USB4 version 2 can push up to 80 gigabits per second in standard mode, which translates to just under 10 gigabytes per second, and it notes this is faster than many common PCI Express 4.0 x4 storage devices. The host media references a signaling change called PAM, which increases data channels by moving from two possible signaling levels to four, effectively doubling the data that can be transmitted in parallel. While full specifications are not yet published by the USB Implementers Forum, the coverage highlights that the speed boost relies on this new physical layer and signaling approach. The discussion also covers practical implications, noting that dedicated active cables rated at 80 Gbps will be used for longer runs, but shorter distance connections do not require new cables to achieve higher speeds, which is seen as a practical benefit for high data throughput scenarios. The video outlines several potential use cases, including multi-function documents, external GPU enclosures, and high-performance displays, and it points out that USB 4 version 2 shares the same bandwidth target as DisplayPort 2.0, enabling multi-monitor setups at high resolutions and frame rates. It also mentions a flexible mode that could allow 120 Gbps downstream and 40 Gbps upstream, though this is not yet standardized, leaving room for future adoption. The segment concludes with a cautious outlook on consumer readiness, noting that USB4 version 2 is not expected to be widely available for the holiday season and that the USB-IF has not released a timetable for consumer pricing or device support, framing the upgrade as a step toward a simpler, more versatile future with fewer connectors rather than an immediate mainstream revolution.

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