Here is John Gruber on the history of USB Type-C:

I have heard, can’t say who, but let’s call them “informed little birdies”, that USB-C is an Apple invention and that they gave it to the standard bodies. And that the politics of such is that they can’t really say that. They’re not going to come out in public and say it, but they did. It is an Apple invention and they do want it to become a standard.

One of the first major consumer products to utilize USB Type-C was the ultra-thin MacBook which was introduced in Spring 2015. Months later, speculation ran rampant that Sony might also utilize the new connector in the Xperia Z5 series, which has obviously turned out to be false. However, it’s looking more likely that the Xperia family might soon be switching ports as three Sony USB Type-C flash drives have been announced today.

More details after the jump.

From Sony:

The USB 3.1 Gen1 CA1-series offers the newest USB standard Type-C™ and A, combining up to 130MB/s transfer speed (read), with durability and design, for a swifter, smarter way of moving your files. Ideal for storing photos, music, videos and other data on-the-go, or transferring between your Android and Mac compatible devices including mobile phones and tablets.

This new USB is guaranteed to cover your additional storage needs for your devices including your Android tablet or your OS PC. The USB market is developing and Sony has the storage solution dedicated to ensuring you are not losing your data between new devices. The USB 3.1 Gen1 CA1-series utilises dual connectors, including the new standard Type-C™ USB, and Type-A, to broaden the usage abilities of the device. The sleek connector is tailored to fit multiple devices such as your smartphone, yet robust enough to also fit your tablet and laptop. It is compatible with Windows, Macintosh, Android and Chromebook devices equipped with Type-C™ and Type-A ports, and makes for quick sharing and easy back up.

The convenient design makes it easier than ever to transport your data ready for when you need it. The slim and tiny design not only makes it your ideal on-the-go companion, but allows avoidance of any interference from host devices or protective cases.

Once released later in February, the new Sony USB Type-C flash drives will come in a 16-, 32-, and 64GB variants. No price has been announced but with Android phones like the OnePlus 2, Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P and ZUK Z1 all using the new format, I wouldn’t be surprised if this was a warmup act by Sony.

Discuss:

Would you like to see USB Type-C arrive on the Xperia Z6?

[Via Sony]