HDMI spec updated to 1.4

HDMI Licensing has announced that the improved HDMI 1.4 specification has been finalized. The new specification, slated to be published by the end of June, includes a number of additions to the High Definition Multimedia Interface standard that is becoming more commonplace with the proliferation of high-def flat panel TVs, Blu-ray players, and a number of other devices. Unfortunately, the spec comes with no less than five different cable types, and defines an additional "micro" port and an automotive-specific connection system, which joins the standard and "mini" HDMI port variants.

The new 1.4 spec adds an optional Ethernet-compatible data channel to HDMI. This data channel will allow bidirectional data transmission up to 100Mbps. The data transmission capabilities will allow one Internet-connected device to share the connection, as well as enable content sharing among HDMI connected devices.