It looks like Type-C is the new Type-A — for USBs, that is. Type-C ports have become the more popular go-to when it comes to new devices, abandoning the old port standard micro-USB. The switch is understandable — Type-Cs tend to have stronger and faster connection capabilities — but it's not necessarily an easy pill to swallow, considering the costs of ditching out old cables to swap out for new, Type-C friendly fare.
This, however, only pales in comparison to what Google Engineer Brandon Leung has posited: that not all USB Type-C cables are standardized, and the wrong model can have some dire effects on a given device's port.
According to Leung's blog, where he qualifies himself and his work colleagues as "very big proponents and innovators of USB Type-C," the engineer became familiar with Type-C specs while helping to develop two respective Pixel line products, and subsequently, noticed that certain Type-C cables were not only incompatible when paired with particular ports but could cause damage to device hubs, adapters or chargers. To warn other potential consumers about the imminent danger their gadgets may experience, Leung has taken to Amazon, writing up helpful reviews to either welcome or warn users to or against the smartphone, tablet or whatever ware or cable strikes their fancy.
So far, Leung has only fully endorsed the Belkin cable and the iOrange-E cable.
As for a rule of thumb when checking out Type-C-imbued devices?
"USB Type-C will only be as good as its ecosystem, and more specifically, the worst of its ecosystem," stated Leung.
You can check out Leung's reviews here.
Via: Android Police
Photo: Intel Free Press | Flickr
