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Like the title says. Why is the new USB type C version 3.1? I thought version names went major.minor.micro. USB C is not backwards compatible with USB-A without a converter so doesn't this make USB-C V4.0 since its a major upgrade?

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Why is USB-C V3.1 and not V4.0?

The new USB type C specification is version 1.0 not 3.1.

The USB 3.1 standard is backward compatible with USB 3.0 and USB 2.0.

The USB Type-C Specification 1.0 defines a new small reversible-plug connector for USB 3.1 devices. The type-C plug will be used at both host and device side, replacing multiple type-B and type-A connectors and cables with a future-proof standard similar to Apple Lightning and Thunderbolt.

Source USB 3.1

Where can I find the USB Type-C Specification Release 1.0?

See USB Type-C Specification Release 1.0 for the specification.

USB-C is not backwards compatible with USB-A

USB C replaces multiple type-B and type-A connectors and cables.

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  • I knew that USB-C replaced Type-A and B. This is why I thought that it should be USB V4.0 however USB-C is still V3.1 isn't it? Sorry if I am not understanding you, its just that I need it explained a bit more. Thank you for answering though.
    – iProgram
    Commented Feb 22, 2015 at 12:13
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    Because it's the very same protocol? It's just a different physical connector, much like PCIe is the same over Mini-PCIe and a regular-sized slot.
    – Daniel B
    Commented Feb 22, 2015 at 13:02
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    There is one standard (specification) for the USB protocol itself (currently at 3.1). There is another different standard (specification) for USB C connectors, currently at 1.0 (because it is new).
    – DavidPostill ♦
    Commented Feb 23, 2015 at 22:36
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    @aPyDeveloper You sure you’re not confusing Alt Mode for USB? Because it isn’t USB. Just because there’s serial connectors with RJ45 doesn’t mean serial is the new Ethernet.
    – Daniel B
    Commented Feb 24, 2015 at 18:24
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    @aPyDeveloper that is DisplayPort technology. Just because a cable is labeled USB doesn't mean it can't be used for something else. It's still a USB 3.1 compatible cable, constructed to a USB C 1.0 standard. DisplayPort technology has nothing to do with USB, it just works over the same cable.
    – DavidPostill ♦
    Commented Feb 25, 2015 at 19:01

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