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Google’s Nexus 5X ships with a USB-C cable that can’t be connected to most computers

Updated Dec 19th, 2018 9:06PM EST
Nexus 5X USB Type C Cable Adaptor
Image: Google

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Earlier this week, Google unveiled the brand new Nexus 5X and Nexus 6P pure Marshmallow smartphones, which are now available for preorder in several markets. However, there’s already a major problem with the cheaper model: the Nexus 5X doesn’t come with a cable that can be connected to most computers.

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As Google’s online store clearly shows (see the screenshot below), the Nexus 5X box contains a USB Type-C 15W charger and a USB Type-C to Type-C cable. That means you’ll need to spend at least $13 to purchase a USB Type-C to UBS Standard-A plug cable, which will let you plug the device into a computer.

Sure, you might not need to do that, but the more expensive Nexus 6P does come with a cable in the box that will connect to standard USB ports, in addition to the USB Type-C to Type-C cable.

One of Android 6.0’s main new features is support for USB Type-C’s fast data transfers and fast charging, so it’s not surprising Google fitted the new Nexus handsets with this technology. Unfortunately, there aren’t many other devices that come with USB-C ports yet, so the only cable the Nexus 5X ships with won’t be able to connect the phone to 99% of the computers out there right now.

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.