HDMI Version 1.4 Unveiled

Under development for some time, HDMI Licensing has taken the wraps off HDMI version 1.4, which adds practical enhancements for HDMI connectivity. Once HDMI 1.4 starts to appear in home theater components, such as HDTVs, Blu-ray Disc players, and Home Theater Receivers, one or more of the following features can be implemented:

1. HDMI Ethernet Channel: This adds internet and home network connectivity to HDMI. In other words, both Ethernet and HDMI functions are available within a single cable connection.

2. Audio Return Channel: This feature provides is a single HDMI connection between a TV and a home theater receiver that can not only pass audio/video signals from the receiver to the TV, but also pass audio originating from the TV's tuner to the receiver. In other words, when listening to audio from the TV's tuner, you don't need a separate audio connection going from the TV to the home theater receiver.

3. 3D Over HDMI: Although specifications for 3D are not standardized, HDMI 1.4 is designed to accommodate whatever standard is finalized.

4. 4K x 2K Resolution Support: Although the current high definition standard for consumer equipment tops out at 1920x1080 (1080p), HDMI 1.4 can accommodate future 3840x2160 and 4096x2160 high definition pixel resolutions now in the planning stages.

5. Expanded Support For Color Spaces: This allows better color reproduction when displaying digital still photos from HDMI-connected Digital Still Cameras.

6. Micro HDMI Connector: Just as mini-USB is employed with portable digital devices, a new "Micro HDMI" Connector is much smaller connector that can still supports up to 1080p resolutions for portable devices. This is very practical for video camcorders, digital still cameras, and portable digital video playback devices.

7. Automotive Connection System: With the increase of in-car digital audio/video devices, HDMI 1.4 can handle the more demanding vibration, heat, and noise that may affect the quality of audio and video reproduction.

For consumers that have components that only feature HDMI versions 1.0 through 1.3, you won't be able to access these added version 1.4 features, but as reassurance, you will still be able to use future 1.4 enabled components with your current HDMI 1.0 to 1.3 components, you just wont have access to the newly added features. In other words, don't raise your arms in the air in frustration, fall into the depths of despair, or start planning a garage sale in order to get rid of your old HDMI equipment. As components featuring HDMI 1.4 are announced, it will be reported here, so stay tuned...

For more details on HDMI 1.4, read the entire announcement from HDMI Licensing. For information on the HDMI versions 1.0 through 1.3, check out my article: HDMI Facts.