Intel has announced the launch of Thunderbolt Share: a new software application designed to revolutionize PC-to-PC connectivity. Presented by Jason Ziller, Vice President and General Manager of Intel’s Client Connectivity Division, Thunderbolt Share is aimed at delivering ultra-fast and efficient PC-to-PC interactions by leveraging Thunderbolt technology.
Key Features and Benefits
Ultra-Fast PC-to-PC Connectivity
Thunderbolt Share offers an easy, fast, and efficient way to utilize two PCs simultaneously. It enables users to securely share screens, keyboards, mice, storage, and files with the high speed and low latency characteristic of Thunderbolt technology. This capability is particularly beneficial for professionals, creators, and gamers who frequently use multiple PCs.
Compatibility and Integration
The application is compatible with all Thunderbolt 4 and Thunderbolt 5 products running on Windows OS. Intel is licensing Thunderbolt Share to OEMs as a value-add feature on new PCs and Thunderbolt accessories, facilitating seamless integration into the existing Thunderbolt ecosystem.
Flexible Configurations
Users can connect PCs via a Thunderbolt monitor, dock, or directly between two Thunderbolt-enabled PCs. This flexibility allows for varied setup configurations, catering to different use cases and user preferences.
Performance and Usability
High Bandwidth and Low Latency
Thunderbolt Share ensures smooth and uncompressed screen sharing at the original resolution of the source PC, supporting Full HD screen mirroring at up to 60 frames per second. The high bandwidth and ultra-low latency provided by Thunderbolt technology enhance the user experience, making interactions between PCs responsive and seamless.
Efficient File Transfer
The application simplifies data transfer between PCs, supporting direct file dragging and dropping, folder synchronization, and quick data migration from old to new computers. This process significantly reduces the steps and time required for file transfer, leveraging Thunderbolt’s high-speed capabilities.
Security and Privacy
Thunderbolt Share includes hardware-based security features suitable for SMB and commercial environments. It ensures secure peer-to-peer wired connectivity, data protection via Intel VT-d, user access control through Windows password-locked screens, and exclusive Thunderbolt network connections. Additionally, it supports enterprise-level access control with Windows Group Policy.
Availability
To utilize Thunderbolt Share, users need a Windows PC or Thunderbolt accessory with Thunderbolt 4 or 5 ports that are licensed with the application. Upon purchasing a licensed PC or accessory, users can download the application on any two Windows PCs with compatible Thunderbolt ports to begin sharing.
Thunderbolt Share will be available in 2024 on select PCs and accessories featuring Thunderbolt 4 or Thunderbolt 5 ports. The logo indicating compatibility with Thunderbolt Share will help users identify supported products.
Thunderbolt Share represents a significant advancement in PC-to-PC connectivity, offering users an efficient and secure method to enhance productivity and collaboration across multiple devices. By leveraging the high-speed, low-latency capabilities of Thunderbolt technology, Intel aims to provide a robust solution that meets the evolving needs of modern PC users.
Full slides from Intel’s presentation of Thunderbolt Share is below:
