From stunning 4K movie visuals to smooth performance in high-refresh-rate gaming, HDMI is vital for connecting devices and enhancing the audiovisual experience. Since its introduction, HDMI has evolved from supporting 1080p resolution to now accommodating up to 10K. This progression has been key in meeting the increasing demands of modern entertainment and high-performance technology.
As 4K and 8K resolutions gain wider adoption, and virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies advance, the demand for high-bandwidth, low-latency transmission is surging. Moreover, the shift of AI from cloud computing to edge computing is accelerating advancements in transmission interfaces.
Rob Tobias, CEO of HDMI Licensing Administrator, noted that while AI technology has existed for years, it has recently gained momentum across diverse product categories and applications. AI is expected to drive transformative breakthroughs in areas such as 8K applications, high-end gaming, and home entertainment systems within a short timeframe.
As transmission interface protocols gain market traction, the development of HDMI's applications and performance is garnering increased attention. In an exclusive DIGITIMES interview, Tobias emphasized that evolving protocols are a response to rising end-user demands. While high bandwidth is crucial, seamless integration into everyday consumer life will be key. HDMI 2.1c is expected to launch by 2025 to meet these needs. Below is a detailed summary of the interview with DIGITIMES.
Q: With AI PCs gaining industry focus in 2024, what key roles does HDMI play, and have you identified any new transmission interface requirements for AI PCs?
A: HDMI serves as the audio-visual connection between devices, with the processing power residing either in the PC or the television. While AI requires substantial compute power, HDMI itself is not directly involved in AI; rather, the two devices it connects are the ones that handle AI functionalities.
Generative AI (GenAI) will boost productivity and creativity, with many users wanting to share their work or view it on larger screens. This positions HDMI as an essential connection for AI PCs. While AI PCs are smart devices capable of handling data processing, improving the overall AI PC experience remains vital.
Q: As HDMI remains the mainstream transmission protocol for TVs, what is the global adoption rate of NextGen TV features by manufacturers and broadcasters? How does HDMI support next-gen technologies like VR and AR as the market demands more immersive experiences?
A: The US is one of the primary adopters, with many broadcasters having already transitioned to ATSC 3.0. South Korea has adopted even more quickly and is now broadcasting in 4K. Taiwan, however, uses DVB, which is a different system. HDMI itself doesn't enhance the viewing experience directly, but it offers high bandwidth, supporting high resolution and frame rates, which helps create a more personalized experience.
Q: In 2023, you mentioned that the widespread adoption of the 8K ecosystem would depend on price decreases in the 4K display supply chain—spanning end products, panels, and chips—along with the growth of 8K content. One year later, has the 8K ecosystem seen substantial progress?
A: The 8K ecosystem has indeed made some progress, but we have observed that suppliers are not yet actively pushing for price reductions. 8K remains a high-end product, making it the top choice for consumers seeking large-screen displays. However, for most mainstream consumers, 4K still holds a price advantage. That said, as more 8K content becomes available, it could potentially drive growth in 8K TV sales.
The Paris Olympics, for instance, highlighted 8K production, content, and streaming through a complete end-to-end solution. Platforms like YouTube are already hosting a growing library of 8K videos. We're seeing more 8K production tools emerging, such as advanced cameras and editing systems. From a content creation standpoint, genres like documentaries and nature films are likely to be the earliest adopters of 8K technology.
Despite limited 8K adoption in household TVs, AI-driven upscaling technology for lower-resolution content and declining prices are expected to drive higher usage rates over the next five years.
In terms of market applications, entertainment content is expected to be the largest consumer segment for 8K, followed by sports. If 4K is a benchmark for 8K's future, we can anticipate a surge in entertainment content. Streaming platforms have already widely adopted 4K, and while sports content is catching up, entertainment is set to lead the transition to 8K.
Q: What is your perspective on the competitive relationship between DisplayPort, HDMI, and USB Type-C?
A: HDMI and DisplayPort have been around for a long time. DisplayPort has found its niche in the PC industry but has not expanded into broader consumer electronics. Some products use USB Type-C connectors to transmit data, power, and audio/video, which is very convenient. However, USB Type-C and DisplayPort are often converted to HDMI, as HDMI displays are more widely supported.
HDMI's penetration rate in the PC market is actually higher than DisplayPort. When it comes to monitors and laptops, the number of HDMI ports exceeds that of DisplayPort.
Q: As 8K and higher resolution display technologies advance, the demand for bandwidth continues to grow. HDMI 2.1b has introduced greater bandwidth and resolution support, but it still lags behind DisplayPort. Does the HDMI Association have plans for further improvements?
A: HDMI and DisplayPort have been in competition for a while, and we are looking forward to the potential release of HDMI 2.1c in 2025. One of HDMI's major advantages is its ease of use. In fact, the 80 companies within the association have already developed the relevant specifications well in advance of market demand.
Regarding bandwidth speed, there are two differing views. One favors continuous advancement, while the other believes that real market demand must be established before integrating new technologies into daily life. The HDMI association carefully considers both perspectives and will introduce new versions, such as HDMI 2.1c, at the right time to meet evolving market needs.
