Free Mac App WhatCable Reveals Hidden USB-C Cable Specs
Developer Darry Morley has released WhatCable, a free macOS app for Apple Silicon that exposes detailed USB-C cable specifications hidden by the operating system. The app uses public APIs to display a connected cable's power delivery, data transfer speed, and capabilities. A free version provides basic info, while a $13 Pro upgrade adds cable organization, diagnostics (water damage, pin testing), real-time monitoring, and port health tools. Users can also contribute to a public cable database. The app addresses the common frustration of unlabeled cables, allowing users to identify whether a cable supports, for example, 40 Gbps or 80 Gbps Thunderbolt 5 speeds. Morley notes that every USB-C cable looks the same but they are not. The Verge reported on the app's launch.
Key facts
- WhatCable is a free macOS app for Apple Silicon computers.
- It reveals hidden USB-C cable specs from macOS.
- The app uses public APIs, not private ones.
- Free version shows cable capabilities and current performance.
- Pro version costs $13 for a lifetime license.
- Pro features include cable organization, diagnostics, real-time monitoring, and port health.
- Users can report cables to a public database.
- Developer is Darry Morley.
Entities
Artists
- Darry Morley
Institutions
- Apple
- The Verge
- PetaPixel
- ProGrade Digital
- Advanced-Connectek Inc.
- KEH.com
- Moment
- FJ Westcott
- Blue Moon Camera and Machine