USB 3.0 is official as of today and it’s transfer speeds can reach up to 4.8Gbps, which means you can transfer 25GB of data in about 70 seconds. It’s all-new architecture makes it more efficient, both on data transfer and power charging for gadgets.

The good news is it’s compatible with the old USB 2.0, but it will only work at USB 2.0 speeds in this case. You need USB 3.0 at both ends plus an USB 3.0 cable, because it does have more pins than the older version.

There are three plugs available: Standard A, which is exactly like the old one, Standard B ( square-form ), and mini B. Even if the specs are out officially, it doesn’t mean we’ll see the new USB 3.0 in stores very soon, or at least not yet than final 2009 or first months of 2010.