How can Intel make Thunderbolt more appealing now that fast ports are standard on computers? Evidently by wooing fanatics who desire a wall of monitors. A new Thunderbolt standard that will provide additional bandwidth for multi-monitor setups and other "visually heavy usages" has been previewed by the manufacturer. The connection typically provides 80 Gbps of bandwidth, in accordance with the USB 4 Version 2.0 specification on which it is based, but when your screens' resolution or refresh rate calls for more speed, it automatically converts to a special mode with 120 Gbps upstream and 40 Gbps downstream.
Additionally, you may anticipate backward compatibility with previous formats, DisplayPort 2.1 support, twice as much PCI Express data (essential for external GPUs), and passive connections up to 3.3 feet long.
That is reasonably close to the upcoming USB 4 specification. But as The Verge notes, Intel is relying on consistency to convince PC manufacturers to use the new technology. According to Intel's Jason Ziller, "many" of the new functions in USB 4 are optional in places where the new Thunderbolt mandates their use. While the USB Implementers Forum works to improve labeling, Thunderbolt may be what you need to ensure that your gaming setup or creative workspace can support all the displays you need.
The revised Thunderbolt standard's features and ultimate name will be announced by Intel sometime in 2023. If Apple accepts the connector, this might encourage some consumers to purchase Intel-powered laptops (or Macs) the next year. The difference between Thunderbolt and USB has, however, obviously shrunk significantly. When an AMD system with USB 4 support may offer almost equal connection, there may not be much of a need for you to purchase an Intel Core-based PC.