Ask HN: Why does this 90-degree USB adapter have a chip in it?

3 pointszachrose2 comments

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09TQNQWPZ

Why isn't it just connectors? What is the chip doing?

Just a guess but perhaps it's to do with USB power delivery?

I guess what I’m wondering though is: what is being negotiated over what looks to me like 8 connectors? Why can’t they just be simple conductors?