The HDMI Forum is today unveiling the final HDMI 2.1 specification, which is now available to all HDMI 2.0 devices. Specifically, the new specification adds 8K60 and 4K120 resolutions and refresh rates and resolution of up to 10K. In addition, HDMI 2.1 adds support for various Dynamic HDR formats and variable refresh rate. Also, the HDMI Forum is future-proofing the new cable design, adding support for next-gen colour spaces, such as BT.2020. Finally, the standard boasts up to 48Gbps bandwidth capacity.
Finalised HDMI 2.1 Standard Highlights
HDMI Specification 2.1 features include:
- Higher video resolutions support a range of high resolutions and faster refresh rates including 8K60Hz and 4K120Hz for immersive viewing and smooth fast-action detail. Additionally, support for up to 10K resolutions in commercial AV, industrial, and speciality uses.
- Dynamic HDR support ensures every moment of a video is displayed at its ideal values for depth, detail, brightness, contrast and wider color gamuts—on a scene-by-scene or even a frame-by-frame basis.
- The Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable supports the 48G bandwidth for uncompressed HDMI 2.1 feature support. The cable also features very low EMI emission and is backwards compatible with earlier versions of the HDMI Specification and can be used with existing HDMI devices.
- eARC simplifies connectivity, provides greater ease of use, and supports the most advanced audio formats and highest audio quality. It ensures full compatibility between audio devices and upcoming HDMI 2.1 products.
- Enhanced refresh rate features ensure an added level of smooth and seamless motion and transitions for gaming, movies and video. They include:
- Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) reduces or eliminates lag, stutter and frame tearing for more fluid and better detailed gameplay.
- Quick Media Switching (QMS) eliminates potential delay (blank screens) before video content begins.
- Quick Frame Transport (QFT) reduces latency for smoother no-lag gaming, and real-time interactive virtual reality.
- Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) allows automatic ideal latency settings to allow for smooth, lag-free and uninterrupted viewing and interactivity.
Finalised HDMI 2.1 Standard
For more information about the HDMI 2.1 standard, the HDMI Forum has released an exhaustive press kit which includes every last detail.
