SUNNYVALE, CALIF.: HDMI Licensing has come up with a cable spec that combines the capabilities of multiple Ethernet connectors. The debuting generation of high-definition multimedia cables will be able support data transfers of up to 100 Mbps upstream, and will have four times the resolution of 1080p, PC World reports.
HDMI 1.4 features an Ethernet channel, allowing connections to set-top boxes, gaming consoles and Blu-ray players, for example. An integrated audio return channel does away with the need for an additional cable. HDMI 1.4 also supports 2K and 4K resolution and several 3D formats. There is also micro connector for vehicle displays.
The new HDMI has apparent drawbacks as well, including no backward compatibility. HDMI 1.4 will sport a 19-pin connector had half the size of those on current cables. The spec is scheduled to be released at the end of June, so HDMI 1.4 connectible devices aren’t expected to hit the market until next year as well. -- Deborah D. McAdams
