Intel introduces Thunderbolt 4 for 40 Gbps speeds

Today Intel introduced Thunderbolt 4 - the next generation of its universal cable connectivity solution, delivering increased minimum performance requirements, expanded capabilities and USB4 specification compliance. For the first time, Thunderbolt 4 will offer docks with up to four Thunderbolt ports and universal cables up to 2 meters in length. Intel's upcoming mobile PC processors, code-named "Tiger Lake," will be the first to integrate Thunderbolt 4. Intel also announced the Thunderbolt 4 controller 8000 series, compatible with the hundreds of millions of Thunderbolt 3 PCs and accessories already available. Thunderbolt 4 developer kits and certification testing are now available.

Thunderbolt 4 builds on the innovation of Thunderbolt 3 for a truly universal cable connectivity experience. Thunderbolt 4 always delivers 40 Gbps speeds and data, video and power over a single connection. It is the most comprehensive Thunderbolt specification yet with compliance across the broadest set of industry-standard specifications - including USB4, DisplayPort and PCI Express (PCIe) - and is fully compatible with prior generations of Thunderbolt and USB products. Thunderbolt 4 certification requirements include:

• Double the minimum video and data requirements of Thunderbolt 3.
• Support for two 4K displays or one 8K display.
• PCIe at 32 Gbps for storage speeds up to 3,000 MBps.
• Support for docks with up to four Thunderbolt 4 ports.
• PC charging on at least one computer port.
• Wake your computer from sleep by touching the keyboard or mouse when connected to a Thunderbolt dock.
• Required Intel VT-d-based direct memory access (DMA) protection that helps prevent physical DMA attacks.

Later this year, Intel expects to deliver the new Thunderbolt 4 controller 8000 series, including the JHL8540 and JHL8340 host controllers for computer makers as well as the JHL8440 device controller for accessory makers. The first computers and accessories with Thunderbolt 4 ports are also expected to be available this year, including laptops based on Intel’s innovation program code-named "Project Athena."