TECH NEWS – At long last, you might soon be able to plug in a USB-C cable and get a display signal on your second monitor—without hassle…
According to a post on the Microsoft USB Blog, Ugan Sivagnanenthirarajah explained the reasons behind the new policy and how Microsoft intends to execute it. The company wants partners to guarantee that all USB data, charging, and display features work on every USB Type-C port. Microsoft also insists that every 40 Gbps USB Type-C port be fully compatible with USB4 and Thunderbolt 3 peripherals.
To run hardware on Windows 11 24H2, companies must meet both these goals and follow all other WHCP compatibility program rules. The standard for “just works” USB ports means every WHCP-compliant device with USB Type-C uses USB-IF-certified silicon, and every connected device must charge efficiently and consistently—because every certified PC’s USB-C port must support USB Power Delivery charging. Every Type-C port must also support DisplayPort Alt-Mode for external monitors, and certification requires using Microsoft’s built-in USB verification drivers.
To earn USB4 certification, a port must support at least 40 Gbps data transfer, deliver up to 15W of power (7.5W for tablets), support PC charging, handle at least two 4K 60 Hz displays, and include both PCIe and Thunderbolt 3 compatibility.
The Microsoft HLK (Hardware Lab Kit) is used for testing. OEMs, silicon makers, and accessory brands run HLK tests and submit logs to Microsoft. Any failure stops certification until fixed via hardware or firmware. Microsoft points out that manufacturers can easily build ports that look identical but vary drastically in function—often misleading buyers. The new push for standardized Type-C functionality is all about fixing this and giving clarity to anyone buying a WHCP-certified machine.
It’s a smart move from Microsoft, and the company could use the good press after laying off almost 7,000 staff just last month…
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