After seven years since the launch of HDMI 2.1, the HDMI Forum is preparing to introduce the next significant update to its famous audio/video interface: HDMI 2.2.
Announcement at CES
According to media invites distributed by the HDMI Forum, the new HDMI standard is set to be revealed on January 6 at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. Although the official invitation does not confirm the exact name, it is largely anticipated that the new specification will be HDMI 2.2. Details on the technical aspects are still lacking, but we have been assured that the latest specification “will enable a variety of higher resolutions and refresh rates and will be supported with a new HDMI cable.”
Next-Gen Features
The press invitation from the HDMI organization states, “The HDMI Forum will announce a new version of the HDMI specification. The new specification, featuring next-generation HDMI technology and higher bandwidth, will enable a variety of higher resolutions and refresh rates and will be supported with a new HDMI cable. New technologies are enabling higher quality options for content producers such as television, film and game studios now and in the future, while also enabling multiple distribution platforms.”
Currently, the HDMI 2.1b standard provides a maximum bandwidth of 48Gbps along with display resolutions reaching up to 8K at 60Hz and 5K at 120Hz using compression. It's quite possible that HDMI 2.2 could either match or surpass the 80Gbps bandwidth offered by DisplayPort 2.1, potentially allowing for higher resolution and refresh rate combinations such as 8K at 120Hz and 10K at 60Hz, among others.
Future GPU Compatibility
There are rumors that the upcoming Nvidia GeForce RTX 50-series and AMD’s Radeon RX 8000 GPUs could launch with HDMI 2.2 support. However, there has been no confirmation from leaks or reports so far, and it seems unlikely that these new GPUs will include the latest HDMI standard right out of the box.
