In Semantic Versioning, the three core numbers—MAJOR.MINOR.PATCH—signal the compatibility impact of a software release: a breaking public API change, a compatible addition, or a compatible bug fix. The convention helps people assess upgrades, but it depends on the project defining its public API and following the rules.
What do the three SemVer numbers mean?
The official Semantic Versioning 2.0.0 specification summarizes the rule: “MAJOR version when you make incompatible API changes, MINOR version when you add functionality in a backwards compatible manner, and PATCH version when you make backwards compatible bug fixes.” Here, “API” means the project’s declared public API—the parts it says consumers can rely on.
| Position | Increase it when | Example |
|---|---|---|
| MAJOR | You make a backward-incompatible change to the public API. | 2.3.4 → 3.0.0 |
| MINOR | You add backward-compatible public API functionality, or mark public API functionality deprecated. | 2.3.4 → 2.4.0 |
| PATCH | You make a backward-compatible bug fix. | 2.3.4 → 2.3.5 |
These are illustrations of the rules, not release histories for a specific product. The specification defines a bug fix as “an internal change that fixes incorrect behavior.”
Why use three parts?
The positions give maintainers a compact way to communicate the kind of public API change in a release. A consumer can use that signal to decide how closely to inspect an upgrade: a major increase indicates possible incompatibility, while minor and patch increases are intended to preserve backward compatibility. The Siemens API versioning guidance similarly distinguishes changes that affect existing API clients from compatible additions and implementation changes.
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- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
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The number is not a score for how impressive or extensive a release is. A large internal refactor can be a patch if it fixes incorrect behavior without changing the public API. A small change to a public method’s signature can require a major increase if it breaks existing clients. Compatibility impact—not effort, size, or marketing importance—determines the position.
What resets when a version increases?
When MINOR increases, PATCH resets to zero. When MAJOR increases, both MINOR and PATCH reset to zero. For example, a compatible feature after 2.3.4 is 2.4.0, and an incompatible public API change after that is 3.0.0.
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Compare the numeric components as numbers, not as text: 1.10.0 comes after 1.9.0. This matters when sorting versions in package tools or release lists.
How do prerelease and build labels work?
SemVer allows additional identifiers after the three-part core version. They add release detail but do not change the meaning of MAJOR, MINOR, and PATCH.
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Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
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- Prerelease: A hyphen introduces a prerelease identifier, as in
1.4.0-rc.1. A prerelease has lower precedence than the associated normal version, so 1.4.0-rc.1 comes before 1.4.0. - Build metadata: A plus sign introduces build metadata, as in
1.4.0+build.52. Build metadata does not affect version precedence.
These suffixes are distinct: the hyphen marks a prerelease, while the plus sign marks metadata that does not change ordering.
Does a minor or patch update guarantee compatibility?
No. SemVer describes a compatibility promise about a project’s public API; a version label alone cannot prove that every upgrade is defect-free or that every consumer’s behavior will remain identical. A study published on arXiv in 2022 describes abnormal execution and crashes after upgrades that were nominally compatible (“Has My Release Disobeyed Semantic Versioning? Static Detection Based on Semantic Differencing”).
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
For consequential upgrades, check the project’s release notes and compatibility policy, and run tests that reflect how your software depends on it. Also check what the project includes in its public API: SemVer does not automatically define a product’s user interface, data formats, deployment behavior, or internal implementation as part of that API.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What changes before version 1.0.0?
Under SemVer, a version below 1.0.0 indicates that the public API is unstable; anything may change at any time. Treat pre-1.0 version numbers as a weaker compatibility signal and consult the project’s own policy and release notes before upgrading.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
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