USB connections are ubiquitous in the digital world, connecting countless devices. Two significant facts highlight their impact and history: they were originally released in the 1990s, giving them several decades of history, and they are incredibly popular, with over 2 billion units sold annually.
A Long History: Originally Released in the 1990s
One of the most notable facts about USB is its longevity. First appearing in the 1990s, USB technology has been a standard interface for over two decades. This long history underscores its foundational role in connecting peripherals to computers and its evolution through several generations to meet increasing demands for speed and power. Its presence for "several decades" demonstrates its enduring design and adaptability over time.
Incredible Market Penetration: Over 2 Billion Sold Annually
Beyond its history, the sheer volume of USB connections speaks to its importance. An astonishing fact is that over 2 billion USB connectors are sold annually. This figure illustrates the massive scale at which USB is integrated into devices worldwide, from simple flash drives and keyboards to complex docking stations and high-performance external storage. This widespread adoption makes USB a nearly universal standard for device connectivity.
These two facts – a long history originating in the 1990s and annual sales exceeding 2 billion units – underscore the critical role USB plays as a durable and incredibly popular interface in contemporary technology.
