This small object is now part of our daily life. Very practical, the USB key found its place as well near our personal computer as that of our work.

But do you know when and who invented the USB key? A quick overview of the history of the USB key and its evolution over the years.

 

The birth of the USB key:

It is difficult to give the name of the main inventor of USB keys, since innovation is often the product of many minds and people over a long period of time.

The simplest way to trace its history is to understand its development following the fusion of two technologies: flash memory and the universal serial bus interface.

Fujio Masuoka invented flash memory. He was a Japanese engineer who worked for Toshiba. Masuoka wanted to develop a device that did not need to be powered to store information. He patented an electronically erasable flash memory.

On the other hand, a team led by IT architect Ajay Bhatt developed the standard USB interface.

Bhatt and his team were interested in simplifying the connection of the various peripherals that we use to improve the performance of our computers (eg printer, mouse, keyboards, etc.). They were the first to introduce this standardized port more commonly known as "USB".

 

A small object that changed the way we use the computer:

Do you remember what it was like to transfer data before USB sticks were available? At the time, the only option was to burn data to CDs or use floppy disks.

CDs and floppy disks had limited storage space, were more susceptible to damage, and required special software or hardware. The USB flash drive was a solution to these limitations.

The USB keys work on all operating systems. There is therefore generally no need to install new software. You can also plug it into the USB ports of any computer.

It also offers more storage options and is more durable. In addition, data transfer has never been faster: USB 3.0 offers a transfer rate of 5 gigabits per second!

Thanks to modern technology and advanced computer development, USB sticks now have exponentially increased memory capacity and are sold at a much lower cost.

Today, less than two decades later, a personalized 32 GB USB stick costs around € 5 including printing.

Experts say this trend will continue as long as the technology evolves. Good news for companies wishing to offer inexpensive advertising items.

 

Much more than an object for transporting files:

Since its creation, the USB key has evolved considerably. Long gone are the days when it was a relatively bulky and not very sexy plastic object to be honest.

Nowadays, the USB key is available in a wide variety of versions and designs. With a key ring to always have it on you with a personalized USB key with a luxury leather finish, the choice is vast.

Everyone can find the USB key that will please their customers or prospects.

 

When the USB key becomes an advertising object:

As you can see, the USB key has become almost indispensable today. And that's not to mention that the personalized USB key remains a very affordable advertising gift.

So this is an excellent solution to stay in the memory of your professional partners without breaking the bank.

You can choose to customize a classic USB key or if you want to be original choose an advertising USB bracelet or a USB card that offers a large marking area and lots of visibility.

There are also wooden USB keys which are more ecological and which respect sustainable development.

 

Offer a personalized USB stick but not just how!

Every aspect of your business gift needs to be thought through, from packaging to message. Consider unique packaging that will ensure your gift gets attention before you even open it.

Be sure to include a personalized message (handwritten if possible) to show that your customer receives a message and a gift carefully tailored to their needs, rather than buying a gift in bulk, writing a uniform message and sending the same gift to your recipient.

A personal touch to a corporate gift is all the more distinct in the digital age.

Find all of our advertising USB keys here.