Intel Thunderbolt Coming to PCs by 2012

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Intel worked closely with Apple in developing the latest high-speed wired technology that supports data transfers for various applications. Earlier limited to Apple devices, the Thunderbolt interface will reportedly launch in PC desktop and notebook computers, too, by 2012.

Apple has partnered with Intel in developing the Thunderbolt interface (then codenamed Light Peak), which is now standard in current MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, Mac Mini ad iMac product lines. Thunderbolt lets users attach various devices like display and storage devices, among others. While the interface was initially limited to higher-end Apple devices, Intel will reportedly “fully release” its Thunderbolt technology in April 2012, with partner manufacturers offering support in motherboards, notebooks and desktop PCs.

DigiTimes reports that sources from within the OEM community in Asia are getting ready with products that support Thunderbolt, which will be ready by second quarter of 2012. The technology did not see widespread adoption this year because of the high associated costs (at $20 per chip), and because it conflicted with the current USB 3.0 standard in terms of data-transfer, which made some brands like HP stick with USB 3.0 instead. But while Thunderbolt was initially limited to higher-end products, the increased demand for Apple’s MacBook Air, Pro, Mac Mini and iMac across market verticals has likewise encouraged other brands to ramp up adoption of Thunderbolt.

The cost of Thunderbolt is expected to drop by second half of 2012, and the interface is expected to surpass other similar technologies as the standard in the future. Currently, Asus, Sony and Gigabyte are reportedly working on adopting Thunderbolt in their notebooks, motherboards and other devices, and other brands are expected to follow suit.