CES 2024 | Labeling: What USB-C cables should look like

At CES Las Vegas, the USB Implementers Forum (USB IF) recently showcased modern USB cables that were correctly labeled for the first time. A correctly labeled USB Type C cable was used as part of a demo at the USB IF's stand at the Digital Experience side event.

Interestingly, a cable with a display was also used to show the performance values. These are practical, but not actually certifiable.

"Look for the logos" was the slogan at CES 2023, where the USB Forum provided Notebookcheck with detailed information about the USB standard. One could be forgiven for thinking "no need to look any further". But this is only party true because, when asked, the USB Forum only referred to two cable manufacturers: Cablematters (whose cable can be seen in the photo) and Plugable.

The cables were hard to find on the show floor

Of course, the industry is still a long way from using the logos correctly. The majority of cable exhibitors at CES also showed incorrectly labeled cables. The situation is generally no better for accessories that come with cables. Here, the likelihood of finding a cable that only supports data rates of the old USB 2.0 standard is even higher.

USB-C cables are therefore likely to remain unknown cables for the time being, unless customers pay more attention to correct labeling when buying and the market recognizes the interest. This is clearly the wish of the USB forum. However, it is doubtful whether this will work if even USB members such as Apple are not keen on clear labeling.