What is SuperSpeed USB 3.0? Next-generation USB interface

SuperSpeed USB 3.0 (Universal Serial Bus) is a new version of the popular USB standard (you know, that familiar square plug on your computers). USB 3.0 uses a differrent type of next-generation connector; so you will need new USB 3.0 cables -- however, a USB 3.0 device can work with a USB 2.0 port, so it is backwards compatible in that sense. USB 3.0's primary benefit is a huge increase in speed: it is roughly 10x faster than USB 2.0 in raw terms, which a maximum of 480Mbps theoretical throughput (480 million megabits per second). Not only will you be able to sync your iPhone or iPod faster (indeed, it has been rumored that Apple will update their entire lineup of computers and devices to be USB 3.0-based), but you could also access a portable hard drive at much greater speeds.

A picture of a next-generation USB 3.0 prototype plug and cable

USB 3.0 specs -- what are they? Here is the USB 3.0 logo