In October 2022, the European Parliament approved the legislation for universal USB-C chargers. This is good news for consumers, as all smartphones, tablets and electronics on the market will now use this universal connector. For a few years now, USB-C has been added to all new Apple smartphones, tablets and accessories, paving the way for new functions.
What are the advantages of the iPad Pro’s Thunderbolt USB-C connector?
Apple has started to equip its new devices with USB-C ports. The iPad Pro’s Thunderbolt port allows the tablet to be used in new ways. As mentioned in the USB-C guide, fast data transfer and UVC (USB video device class) may enable the iPad Pro to be used as a screen.
The video device class USB protocol can handle video streams in various encoding formats, as well as still images, and offers the possibility of controlling a display, smartphone or tablet. This is precisely what the latest iPadOS 17 update provides, giving users the option of connecting new accessories such as a webcam or an HDMI to USB-C adapter to the iPad Pro. However, to decode the external video stream, you’ll need an app capable of displaying the image. This is precisely the idea behind Orion, which will turn Apple’s tablet into a monitor.
How to use an iPad Pro as a screen with Orion
Several new applications have been made possible by the Orion app. For example, using the iPad Pro as a monitor screen for a camera is highly useful, especially as the Apple brand has a strong presence in the video creation industry. If you already own a compatible tablet, this feature can save you the trouble of buying new equipment.
An HDMI to USB-C adapter is also perfect for gaming, as it allows you to connect a console. Because the Orion app is able to upscale HD signals to 4K, you’ll be able to enjoy UHD resolution with a Nintendo Switch, for example. Naturally, the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X will also work with the screen of the iPad Pro. Retro gaming fans will appreciate the CRT filter, which emulates a cathode-ray display.
Last but not least, the iPad Pro can also be used as a second screen with a Mac or PC. An extra display that can be handy for gaming and office setups. This function was already possible with wireless mirroring via AirPlay 2, Sidecar or third-party applications, but didn’t really allow you to take full advantage of screen quality and uncompressed video streams. Furthermore, the wired connection considerably reduces latency, so you can enjoy office apps and, above all, video games in the best possible conditions.
Why switch to Thunderbolt USB-C?
Today, all image devices such as TVs use the HDMI standard, capable of speeds of up to 48 GBps. But this was without taking into account USB 4, which is now capable of speeds of up to 80 GBps. The European law making USB-C compulsory will encourage manufacturers to make greater use of this technology. This democratization should also lead to new future applications in video and audio.
