Details of the latest HDMI specifications have been released. The specifications numbered 1.4 indicate that Ethernet support for multiple devices will now be available. This networking capability will allow upstream audio connections as well as bi-directional communication for those connected devices.
“The HDMI Ethernet Channel will allow an Internet-enabled HDMI device to share its connection with other HDMI devices without the need for a separate Ethernet cable. The new feature will also provide the connection platform to allow HDMI-enabled devices to share content between devices,”
By introducing the new Ethernet features it allows for less cables to be used when connecting devices. Other features listed include 3D TV support which should become popular in the next few years as well as resolutions above 1080p. Full list below…
* 3D over HDMI – defines common 3D formats and resolutions.
* 4K x 2K resolution support – allows HDMI devices to support HD resolutions above 1080p.
* Expanded support for color spaces – compatible with sYCC601, Adobe RGB and AdobeYCC601.
* Automotive connection system – designed for in-vehicle HD content distribution.
* New micro connector – small, 19-pin HDMI connector to support 1080p resolution on portable devices.
New HDMI cables are also going to be introduced in to the market which have slightly different specs. These new cables include…
* Standard HDMI cable supports data rates up to 1080i/60.
* High speed HDMI cable supports data rates beyond 1080p, including deep color and all 3D formats of the new 1.4 specification.
* Automotive HDMI cable allows the connection of external HDMI-enabled devices to an in-vehicle HDMI device.
* Standard HDMI cable with Ethernet.
* High Speed HDMI cable with Ethernet.
Details available at HDMI.org soon. Via: TGDaily
All of that sounds very cool on paper…but its stuff very few will ever care about or use.