All kinds of different small USB connectors have been used for years for devices like digital cameras, digital audio players and phones. Now the USB Implementers Forum has approved a new micro-USB standard.
“As portable devices such as mobile phones, PDAs and digital cameras get smaller and more compact, manufacturers recognized the need for a new USB connector specification to suit the design of these new products,” said Jeff Ravencraft, chairman and president of the USB-IF. “USB-IF developed the Micro-USB specification to adapt to sleek new design needs.”
The Micro-USB specification supports the USB On-The-Go (OTG) supplement, which was created in response to the growing need for portable devices to communicate directly with each other when a PC is not available. Micro-series definitions include: Micro-B receptacles for standard devices, Micro-AB receptacles for OTG devices, Micro-A and Micro-B plugs, and standard cables. The Micro-series are unique in that they feature a stainless steel shell, which yields more than 10,000 insertion cycles for longer life and higher durability, and passive latching mechanism for higher extraction forces. The Micro-series connectors will continue to maintain the ease-of-use and speed of the USB technology.
"Nokia always strives for great user experience. The new micro-USB that is standardized, miniaturized, and optimized for mobile use helps us in that important task. The micro-USB offers innovative design and a flexible platform that our technical teams can easily take on board while working with new product designs," said Jouko Junkkari, Director within Nokia Technology Platforms.
More details on how this connector looks like or photos aren't available yet.
Phones to get new smaller USB connector
Posted on Thursday, January 04 2007 @ 20:35 CET by Thomas De Maesschalck