Since the universal serial bus was first developed and rolled out back in the nineties, it has not only revolutionized how we connect various external items to our computers, but it has also shown remarkable staying power. Nothing like the infamous “format wars” in other areas of technology has happened with the USB. It was so versatile and useful from the very start that nothing has fully “replaced” it in nearly 30 years.
To see just how much of a change USB made, and just how useful it continues to be, it’s worth considering the plight of computer users before it was developed. In the old days, if you wanted to connect a printer, fax machine, or some other external device, you would require a range of wires and connectors to hook it up, and a range of drivers to install each item properly. USB put an end to all that; its key attribute is its universal versatility.
A New USB?
As it happens, USB could soon become even more versatile. The development of the USB type C has increased the speed at which USB connectors can transfer data and power, but also the ease with which it can be plugged in (the USB C is flippable, meaning you don’t need to worry about plugging it in the wrong way round). USB and USB type C have made possible all sorts of periphery gadgets and devices. A good example is the USB C rechargeable smart batteries, produced by tech company Pale Blue Earth, which are fast replacing traditional AA and AAA household batteries. Such products can connect and charge efficiently thanks to the power of USB C.
An Explosion of New Devices
So, very much unlike the old days when a handful of peripheral devices could be connected to a computer with much hassle and extra equipment being needed, the USB has led to an explosion of computing devices and accessories, some of which are quite unusual indeed.
So, what are these new and often unusual USB products? Here follows a list of products that you probably didn’t even know existed, and which range from sheer amusing novelty all the way up to very useful indeed.
USB Mini Fridge
Often able to store up to 12oz of beverages, there are indeed USB mini-fridges out there that can be plugged into your computer. It is perhaps a reflection of where USB power delivery is at, however, it can only keep a drink chilled (not frost a warm drink or keep anything frozen). Nevertheless, that could soon change with the latest innovations in USB power delivery brought about by type C.
USB-Heated Eye Mask
This is not for sleeping (you would hardly want to have a running computer beside your bed as you attempt to doze off). Instead, it is for relieving eye strain that long hours in front of the computer can cause. And for that, it’s actually pretty effective!
USB Plasma Orb
Things like plasma orbs and lava lamps are always popular – there’s something soothing and beguiling about watching them. And you can now plug them straight into your laptop as you work.
UV Lamp Bug Zappers
Bugs can be a hassle when working. But there are now USB zappers available which attract the bugs with UV light before sucking them into a fan vortex when they come close. Perhaps we’ll soon also see USB bug zappers that can electrocute them too.
From small USB desk robots to mug warmers, there are all manner of gadgets you can plug straight into your laptop’s USB port. The universal serial bus is very well-named indeed.
