[New Release] PowerExpand Direct 8-in-2 Now Available!

#1

Anker has just released its first USB-C hub with a Lightning audio port… Take a look at PowerExpand Direct 8-in-2 (for MacBooks).

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Features & details

  • The Anker Advantage: Join the 55 million+ powered by our leading technology.
  • Massive Expansion: Expand your MacBook’s 2 USB-C ports into 1 Thunderbolt USB-C port, 1 USB-C data port, 2 USB-A ports, 1 HDMI port, 1 SD card slot, 1 microSD card slot, and a Lightning audio port—all from one ultra-compact hub.
  • High-Speed, High-Def: A Thunderbolt 3-enabled USB-C port supports huge charging power up to 100W, data transfer up to an astounding 40 Gb/s, and media display at resolutions up to 5K, while the Lightning audio port supports maximum 48 kHz/24-bit digital transmission.
  • Multi-Monitor Display: The HDMI port supports a resolution of 4K@30Hz while the Thunderbolt 3 port supports 5K@60Hz. Connect to both simultaneously to enjoy crystal-clear streaming or mirroring across 2 displays.
  • What You Get: PowerExpand Direct 8-in-2 USB-C PD Media Hub, travel pouch, welcome guide, worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.

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Pricing and Availability: Anker’s PowerExpand Direct 8-in-2 is available to order now from amazon.com for $79.99 and should begin shipping on June 16.

What are your thoughts on Anker’s first USB-C hub with a Lightning audio port? Be sure to let us know with a reply!

#2

I’m really confused. This is taking so many steps backwards it’s insane.

Why not just use auxiliary- the universal audio port? Why do I need to turn my MacBook USB-C port into a lightning port?

This makes zero sense to me.

Also couldn’t it be for iPad Pro too?

2 Likes
#3

Nope, this requires two input ports, like the existing PowerExpand Direct 7-in-2.

2 Likes
#4

I don’t like the dedicated two port design that only connects to a few models of computer from one manufacturer. Same objection I had to the older 7 in 2.

Lightning seems like a dying standard - I don’t quite understand why you would want it on a new product release. And that appears to be the only difference from the 7-in-2.

The TB3 port is presumably the only that does passthrough charging. But that means if you want to use it for displayport output as well, you need another hub to split those things out. And you will usually want charging.

Clearly wasn’t designed for me though, hope you find a good audience.

4 Likes
#5

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#6

Such a long name lol

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#7

What you really need is to add a gigabit Ethernet port to this and then you’ll have a real winner

2 Likes
#8

UPDATE

I have added photos to the original post!

1 Like
#9

UPDATE

Anker’s PowerExpand Direct 8-in-2 is now available to order from amazon.com for $79.99 and should begin shipping on June 16.

#10

I’m still cringing at the structural engineering of this concept.

Physically attached to an expensive laptop a natural lever. What ever can go wrong with that!

A bendy wire on a single port so any force it naturally comes out would be less prone to the ooops future regret.

1 Like