data transfer Archives

Winsage

June 2, 2025

Make USB-C great again: Microsoft requires full functionality of all PC ports for Windows 11 certificate

Microsoft has announced an update to its Windows Hardware Compatibility Program (WHCP) for Windows 11, introducing a new standard for USB-C ports. All certified devices must support data transfer, charging, and video output through their USB-C ports. Laptops with 40 Gbps USB ports will be required to support USB4 and Thunderbolt 3. The updates are effective for devices shipping with the Windows 11 24H2 update and will mandate the use of certified chips from USB-IF, along with Microsoft's own USB controller driver. These changes aim to eliminate inconsistencies in USB-C functionality across devices, providing users with reliable port performance by 2025.

Winsage

June 2, 2025

Microsoft imposes new rules on Windows 11 laptop makers to ensure they don’t cut corners with key features of USB-C ports

Microsoft has introduced new regulations to standardize USB-C ports on Windows 11 laptops, ensuring that all ports provide essential functionalities: display support, PC charging support, and data transfer. The updated Windows Hardware Compatibility Program (WHCP) mandates that every USB-C port must adhere to a minimum standard of functionality, allowing users to connect external monitors, charge devices, and transfer data efficiently. Ports supporting USB 40Gbps will also be compatible with USB4 and Thunderbolt 3 peripherals. These requirements are effective with the release of Windows 11 24H2. While the regulations establish a baseline, variations in specifications such as supported displays, power delivery capacity, and data transfer speeds may still exist and should be detailed in laptop specifications.

Winsage

June 2, 2025

Microsoft fights USB-C chaos on Windows 11 laptops with new label

Microsoft will enforce standardized USB-C specifications for Windows 11 laptops starting with the 24H2 update, requiring PC manufacturers to adhere to these guidelines. USB-C ports must support data transfer rates of 40 Gbps or 80 Gbps and be compatible with Thunderbolt 3, providing a minimum charging power of 15 watts (7.5 watts for tablets). Additionally, USB-C ports must support USB Power Delivery, PCIe tunneling, DisplayPort Alt Mode, and dual 4K@60Hz monitors. For USB3, ports must facilitate data transfer at rates of 5 Gbps, 10 Gbps, or 20 Gbps, with charging capabilities ranging from 4.5 to 15 watts. Manufacturers must test devices using Microsoft's Windows Hardware Lab Kit (HLK) to earn WHCP certification.

Winsage

June 2, 2025

Which USB Port Is This? Microsoft Vows To End The Lottery

The USB-C connector has become complex, with varying standards causing confusion among users. Microsoft found that over 25% of users encounter errors when connecting USB-C devices due to unsupported functionalities. To address this, Microsoft plans to establish a minimum standard for USB-C port capabilities on personal computers, which will be part of the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program. Future USB-C ports will support device charging, DisplayPort Alt-mode, and compatibility with USB 40Gbps, USB4, and Thunderbolt 3 peripherals. However, not all USB-C ports will operate at the same speeds, and existing devices will not receive these enhancements, meaning it may take years for users to benefit from the new standards.

Winsage

June 2, 2025

Microsoft finally cracks down on PC builders using subpar USB-C ports with new WHCP rules

Microsoft has updated the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program (WHCP) to establish minimum standards for USB-C ports on devices certified for Windows 11. The new requirements include: - USB-C 3: Minimum data transfer speed of 5 Gbps. - Power Delivery: At least 4.5W of accessory power. - PC Charging: Capability for charging the device. - Display Output: Support for at least one external display. For USB 4, additional requirements include support for dual 4K 60Hz resolutions, PCIe, and Thunderbolt 3. All USB-C ports on certified devices must also support USB-IF certified silicon, USB Power Delivery, DisplayPort Alt-Mode, and utilize Microsoft’s built-in USB controller drivers. Manufacturers are expected to achieve WHCP compliance in the coming years.

Winsage

June 2, 2025

Microsoft promises to sort out USB shambles

Microsoft is updating its Windows Hardware Compatibility Program (WHCP) for Windows 11 to standardize USB-C port functionality across devices. The new guidelines will ensure that all USB-C ports on certified Windows 11 devices support data transfer, charging, and display output. This initiative aims to eliminate confusion for users regarding port capabilities. Additionally, USB 40Gbps ports will be compatible with USB4 and Thunderbolt 3 peripherals, while USB 3.X ports may not match the performance of USB4. Microsoft will also require USB-IF certified silicon in PCs and will validate USB controllers with its own drivers to ensure seamless updates through Windows Update.

Winsage

June 1, 2025

Microsoft promises it is ‘ending USB-C port confusion’ with updated Windows 11 certified program

Microsoft is revamping the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program (WHCP) to ensure that all USB-C ports on Windows laptops and tablets support data transfer, charging, and display functionalities consistently. This initiative aims to eliminate confusion regarding which ports can be used for specific functions. Drivers will be updated through Windows Update to enhance security and features, and the Hardware Lab Kit (HLK) will support ongoing improvements to the WHCP, leading to a more reliable USB-C experience.

Winsage

March 3, 2025

Qualcomm’s next-gen ARM chip for Windows to add 50% more cores

Qualcomm is developing the Snapdragon X2 processor for Windows PCs, featuring up to 18 Oryon V3 cores and designated as SC8480XP. It will utilize a system-in-package (SiP) design, integrating RAM and flash storage to enhance data transfer speeds and energy efficiency. Potential configurations may include up to 48GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD. The Snapdragon X2 is expected to be a high-TDP variant, with thermal management innovations including an all-in-one liquid cooling solution. It is branded as “Snapdragon X2 Ultra Premium” and aims to compete with Intel, AMD, and Apple's M-series chips. Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite Gen 2 will incorporate the Oryon v3 CPU, following the Oryon v2, which offers a 30% performance boost and 57% increase in power efficiency. The Snapdragon X2 could impact the Windows on ARM ecosystem, although challenges with software compatibility and market adoption remain.

Winsage

March 2, 2025

Microsoft shares more information about USB settings in Windows 11

In 2023, Windows 11 introduced official USB4 support with data transfer speeds of 40Gbps, later expanded to 80 and 120Gbps. A dedicated Settings page for managing USB4 devices and hubs was added. Recent updates included connection notifications for issues, alerts for slow charging due to incompatible chargers, a USB battery saver feature for energy conservation, and a section detailing connected USB4 devices. These settings are located under Settings > Bluetooth & Devices > USB, with some features being device-specific.

Winsage

February 28, 2025

Microsoft’s latest bit of nagging in Windows 11 might come from a good place, but it’s seriously annoying some people

Windows 11 users are receiving persistent reminders in the Settings app to back up their PCs, promoting Microsoft’s Backup app and OneDrive for cloud storage. This notification is particularly directed at users who have opted out of cloud syncing and backup settings, leading to frustration among those who manage their backups independently. Users have expressed a desire for a way to dismiss these reminders, as many already use third-party backup solutions. Discussions on platforms like Reddit indicate that some users are looking for workarounds to disable the notifications.