The HDMI Forum has officially unveiled version 2.2 of the HDMI specification, marking a significant advancement in video technology. This new specification supports video resolutions up to an astonishing 16K at 60Hz and boosts the maximum bandwidth to 96Gbps. Alongside this release, a new cable designation called Ultra96 has been introduced, which is designed to enhance the user experience for high-resolution media.
The HDMI 2.2 specification brings groundbreaking capabilities, including support for a remarkable 16K resolution at 60Hz and 12K at 120Hz. For those utilizing uncompressed formats with full 4:4:4 chroma and both 10-bit and 12-bit color, the specification can handle 4K at 240Hz and 8K at 60Hz. This is all made possible through the expanded 96Gbps bandwidth and next-generation FRL signaling, which enhances reliability in high-bandwidth scenarios.
Chandlee Harrell, president of the HDMI Forum, expressed enthusiasm over the release: “The HDMI Forum is proud to release the new HDMI 2.2 Specification to enable higher performance capabilities and features for exciting and immersive new solutions and products. The introduction of the new Ultra96 feature name will help consumers and end-users ensure their product’s maximum bandwidth is supported.”
The Ultra96 designation is positioned as the next evolution beyond the current “Ultra High Speed” cables, which have a maximum bandwidth of 48Gbps. According to the HDMI Forum, “Ultra96 is a feature name that manufacturers are encouraged to use to indicate a product supports a maximum of 64Gbps, 80Gbps, or 96Gbps bandwidth in compliance with the HDMI 2.2 Specification. The new Ultra96 HDMI Cable supports up to 96Gbps and all HDMI 2.2 applications.”
As reported by The Verge, Ultra96-certified HDMI cables and compatible devices are expected to hit the market later this year, paving the way for enhanced video experiences. Additionally, HDMI 2.2 introduces the Latency Indication Protocol (LIP), which aims to improve audio/video synchronization across systems where signals pass through multiple devices before reaching the final display.
Although 16K displays are not widely available in stores yet, and most content is still limited to 4K or 8K, the release of HDMI 2.2 is more about preparing for the future. This specification ensures that manufacturers have a robust standard to support as hardware and media continue to advance, pushing frame rates and resolutions to unprecedented heights.
