Data and charging cables belong to technologies that are used by practically every person. But a cable is not like a cable. What types are currently in vogue and which trends and innovations are moving the world of cables? We will answer that too in the following lines.
How it started
Transfer files to your computer, print, charge your phone and headphones, or transfer audio and video from one device to another. Data and charging cables have become an integral part of our lives in recent decades. But when did they first see the light of day? Before we move on to new trends and innovations, it is good to know something about their origins. The term "USB" (from the English Universal Serial Bus) began to circulate among people in the mid-1990s (around 1996), when the USB 1.0 cable with a speed of 1.5 Mbps was created, followed by the USB 1.1 type with a speed of 12 Mbps. What a difference compared to today, when we calculate the speed in gigabits.
As the demands of users for faster charging and faster data transfer increased over time, manufacturers had to improve cables. In the new millennium, mini USB and microUSB were created, so that later the preferred USB-C saw the light of day. The latest USB4 generation provides a transfer speed of more than 40 Gbps , which was unimaginable just a few years ago. See below how cables have evolved over time.
Evolution of data transfer rates
| Name | Launched on the market | Transmission speed |
|---|---|---|
| USB 1.0 and 1.1 | late 90s | USB 1.0: up to 1.5 Mbps (Low Speed) USB 1.1: up to 12 Mbps (Full Speed) |
| USB 2.0 | 2000 | up to 480 Mbps (High Speed) |
| USB 3.0/3.1 Gen 1 | 2008 | up to 5 Gbps (SuperSpeed) |
| USB 3.1 Gen 2 | 2013 | up to 10 Gbps (SuperSpeed+) |
| USB 3.2 | 2017 | up to 20 Gbps in dual-channel transmission mode (SuperSpeed+ 20 Gbps) |
| USB 4 | 2019 | up to 40 Gbps |
| Thunderbolt 3 and 4 | Thunderbolt 3: up to 40 Gbps Thunderbolt 4: provides the same speed as Thunderbolt 3, but with better support for more devices and higher security standards |
Now let's get down to the nitty-gritty: trends and innovations in data and charging cables.
1. Fast charging is the alpha and omega
Speed, speed and more speed. In some situations, users need to charge their mobile phone or laptop in tens to units of minutes, so it probably won't surprise you that one of the biggest trends in recent years is fast charging. Current cables can charge devices extremely quickly, thanks to Qualcomm Quick Charge and USB Power Delivery (USB-PD) technologies, for example. The latest USB-PD 3.1 standard supports charging up to 140 W, so the device gets energy several times faster. A USB-C cable can theoretically handle 240 W, but no device or charger has yet been built for such a power.
2. No USB-C or a bang
A lot has been written and spoken about the USB-C cable in the recent past, especially in connection with EU legislation. In order to reduce electronic waste, it orders manufacturers (from April 2026 for laptops and from December 2024 for other devices) to produce all devices with a USB-C connector.
Whatever your stance on this issue, the truth is that USB-C has become the alpha and omega of cables around the world and will be the most widespread of all in the foreseeable future. It offers a high transmission speed, but most importantly, it is universal, so you can charge practically any device with it - from mobile phones to tablets and laptops to headphones. By the way, Apple switched to USB-C ahead of time with its iPhone 15. It is also convenient to use a USB-C cable because you can plug it in in any direction . When choosing, however, pay attention to the parameters of the given USB-C, because each has different specifications, and thus also the price. In short, a cable is not like a cable.
Not long ago, Apple made extensive use of the Lightning connector on its devices, replacing the older 30-pin connector. Lightning is stable and can handle fast charging. However, due to the aforementioned EU legislation, Apple is withdrawing from this connector and switching to USB-C.
3. Smart cables are also a trend
This innovation is not much talked about, which is a shame, because it can significantly affect the world of data and charging cables in the coming years. The so-called intelligent (smart) cables offer additional functions compared to ordinary ones, such as monitoring the charging status or built-in LED lighting for easy use in the dark.
Smart cables are a bit more expensive, but if you're a tech enthusiast and want to always be one step ahead, we recommend getting one.
4. The cable from the manufacturer may not be the best
Manufacturers of mobile phones, tablets, headphones and other devices often include a data or charging cable in the box. The problem is that these cables are usually not of very good quality. If you care about the durability of the cable and you don't want to throw it in the trash after a month, invest in a high-quality and durable product. Purchasing durable cables is becoming more and more trendy among users, as they will last for many years.
Do you know that at FIXED we are working on the development of more durable cables with a reinforced construction? For example, they have nylon braiding, increasing resistance to wear and tear.
We are preparing a cable with a 5-year warranty that will withstand the impossible
At FIXED, we care about data and charging cables that they are not only fast, but also durable.
Years ago we produced simple and elegant cables with different connectors (USB-A, microUSB, USB-C or Lightning). Over time and with the arrival of PD chargers with a USB-C output connector, we also added USB-C to USB-C cables and USB-C to Lightning, which handle charging power of up to 60 W and data transfer speed in the USB 2.0 standard. In addition, they managed to improve them with Liquid Silicone material, which is durable, pleasant to the touch and does not tangle.
In the FIXED menu you will find a lot of data and charging cables that are highly resistant and boast the latest technologies.
As time went on, we also focused more and more on the production of premium cables, which in many ways surpass the "ordinary" ones. That's why today in the FIXED menu you can also find a unique charging cable that has optical fibers inside - RGB colors light up in the interface during charging. It is therefore ideal, for example, for computer game players.
And what are we planning next? Among other things, the premium line of FIXED Armor cables, which will boast a beautiful nylon braid ensuring high strength and durability . The part between the cable and the connector will be coated with a rubber component, which will increase the resistance of this Achilles heel of all cables (tested up to 150 thousand bends). FIXED Armor lasts almost impossible, that's why we give it a 5-year warranty.
We are also preparing an unusual cable aimed primarily at geeks , with a digital display and a transparent connector design. It will be another great demonstration that even a classic cable can be inflated with electronics.
Do you need advice on choosing? Write to us
Whether you need help choosing cables or other FIXED products, don't forget that we are always here for you. Feel free to write to us at any time in the live chat here on the website, we will be happy to help you.