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One reason even hardcore Android fans might have to praise Apple

Published Mar 16th, 2015 1:00PM EDT
USB-C: MacBook and Android Port
Image: Apple Inc.

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In addition to the original iPhone that changed the entire smartphone landscape and made Android’s meteoric rise possible in the process, hardcore fans of Google’s operating system might soon have one more reason to praise Apple.

DON’T MISS: 5 somewhat secret things you didn’t know your iPhone could do

In a new episode of his The Talk Show podcast, John Gruber said he learned from a source familiar with the matter that Apple may have invented USB-C, and then passed it over to the standard bodies.

“I have heard, can’t say who, but let’s call them ‘informed little birdies’, that USB-C is an Apple invention and that they gave it to the standard bodies,” Gruber said. “And that the politics of such is that they can’t really say that. They’re not going to come out in public and say it, but they did. It is an Apple invention and they do want it to become a standard.”

According to the popular Apple blogger, Apple may want certain standard ports for users, but the iPhone maker may also favor certain proprietary ports in other instances. He didn’t mention whether any of the upcoming iPhone and/or iPad models will also adopt USB-C ports in the near future.

In addition to the 12-inch MacBook, which only has one port (the USB-C), there are several other gadgets that feature similar ports, including the gorgeous Nokia N1 Android tablet we’ve seen at MWC and which was launched back in 2014, as well as Google’s recently released 2015 Chromebook Pixel (which has two such ports).

Interestingly, Google confirmed when announcing the Pixel that USB-C ports will be found on a variety of devices in the near future, including Android smartphones and Chromebooks (see video below). In a video explaining the new USB-C port, Google said that it has worked with the industry to come up with the standard, taking some credit for the connector. However, for some reason Google postponed the new Pixel’s announcement until after the MacBook was introduced.

Chris Smith Senior Writer

Chris Smith has been covering consumer electronics ever since the iPhone revolutionized the industry in 2008. When he’s not writing about the most recent tech news for BGR, he brings his entertainment expertise to Marvel’s Cinematic Universe and other blockbuster franchises.

Outside of work, you’ll catch him streaming almost every new movie and TV show release as soon as it's available.