The next generation of HDMI cable technology has arrived. The HDMI Forum has released the specifications for HDMI 2.0, which is capable of bandwidth of 18Gbps to support 4K video at 2160p definition – four times the clarity of 1080p/60 video resolution.
The next version of HDMI (high-definition multimedia interface) comes with 32 audio channels, as well as dynamic auto lip-synch and extensions to CEC (consumer electronics control).
The HDMI Forum’s Technical Working Group developed the new standard. The forum has more than 88 members consisting of some of the world’s biggest electronics OEMs and manufacturers of TVs, mobile phones, smartphones, PCs, cables and components.
Version 2.0 of the HDMI specification does not define new cables or new connectors. Current high-speed cables (category 2 cables) are capable of carrying the increased bandwidth.
“The introduction of the HDMI 2.0 specification represents a major milestone for the HDMI Forum,” said Robert Blanchard of Sony Corporation, president of the HDMI Forum. “Our members collaborated closely to take the highly successful HDMI specification to the next level by expanding audio and video features for consumer electronics applications.”
The HDMI Forum has chosen HDMI Licensing, LLC to be the Agent to license Version 2.0 of the HDMI Specification. In this role, HDMI Licensing, LLC will provide marketing, promotional, licensing and administrative services, as well as education on the benefits of the HDMI Specification to adopters, retailers, and consumers.
“We are pleased to continue our work in supporting the HDMI adopter base, as well as the entire HDMI ecosystem,” said Steve Venuti, president of HDMI Licensing, LLC. “Adopters can now continue to develop new product functionality over the HDMI interface, as well as look to HDMI Licensing, LLC as their single contact for all their licensing and administrative needs.”
HDMI image via Shutterstock
