Are we ready for micro USB standardization on mobile devices?

[Chuong Nguyen]

The Open Mobile Terminal Platform (OMTP) has recommended that the micro USB standard to be used for mobile devices. Nokia, an OMTP member, was a strong proponent to push for micro USB standardization.

While I personally agree that standardization would be great, especially considering that when you change handsets you don't have to worry about new chargers or synch cable. There is an additional benefit to the environment since old chargers won't need to be tossed out. However, since so many devices already use mini USB (Motorola Q, various HTC Pocket PC and Smartphones, Blackberries, and Bluetooth headsets among others) that it seems the micro USB standard will seem more costly to consumers with a plethora of mini USB devices. Personally the port for micro USB does not look much smaller than mini USB. If the chip and footprint within the device is smaller, then it may possibly make sense, albeit only marginally as mini USB is pretty small.

Do you guys think micro USB is the way to go or would you rather see mini USB be the mobile standard?

[Brandon Miniman]

I'm for mini USB all the way ... it IS the standard now, and it small enough.

[Chuong Nguyen]

Amen! The memory card standards are already confusing enough--let USB be as a lot of people are already familiar with miniUSB and the 4-pin USB that connects to printers! The various standards based on the USB protocol seemingly resembles the various SD memory card protocols with microSD, miniSD, and SD.

[Brandon Miniman]

Amen! The memory card standards are already confusing enough--let USB be as a lot of people are already familiar with miniUSB and the 4-pin USB that connects to printers! The various standards based on the USB protocol seemingly resembles the various SD memory card protocols with microSD, miniSD, and SD.

I never noticed that, but you're right. And what happened with SD? It progressed from largest to smallest, and now microSD is just about standard. Maybe that will happen with micro USB...

[Rainman]

I'm all for Mini-USB as well. All my devices are using it, from the 8525's me and my wife use, to the GPS units to my Motorola BT headphones. I have to agree with Brandon, mini-USB is the standard, so why change it again?

[Chuong Nguyen]

Instead of developing micro USB, I think the USB consortium should help to rollout wireless USB and have mini USB and wireless USB available on future devices. I don't really use the mini USB cable with my AT&T 8525 for data synchronization anymore, especially considering Exchange 2007. I do use it for charging and the occasional installation of programs. With wireless USB, you would only need the USB cable to charge if you have the wireless USB capabilities on your host PC for data synchronization.

[Mike Benton]

keep the miniUSB. I believe the various standards on memory cards is enough. When it comes to cables the miniUSB is small enough. I see no need for our devices to require an even smaller connection.