HDMI is poised to replace outdated multi-colored cables with a streamlined, user-friendly option known as HDMI 2.2. This technology is now standard across all modern televisions, gaming consoles, and computers. However, advancements have been minimal since 2017. The latest iteration, HDMI 2.2, is set to be introduced at CES 2025, bringing significant enhancements compared to its predecessor.
Among the standout features of this new specification are four key improvements. Firstly, it supports video resolutions up to 12K, with a 12-bit color depth, RGB 4:4:4, and a frame rate of 60 frames per second. Secondly, it boasts a maximum data transfer rate of 96 Gbps. Additionally, it introduces the Fixed Rate Link (FRL) communication protocol and the Latency Indication Protocol (LIP) for improved audio and video synchronization. This review will explore the essential aspects of HDMI 2.2 and highlight its differences from HDMI 2.1.
HDMI 2.2 and HDMI 2.1: Differences
HDMI, which stands for High Definition Multimedia Interface, was created to provide a secure means of transmitting both digital video and audio through a single cable. It was also designed with the capability to be upgraded to accommodate evolving requirements. The HDMI Licensing Organization and the HDMI Forum are responsible for developing and enforcing HDMI standards.
Reflecting its naming convention, HDMI 2.2 represents an incremental update that introduces support for enhanced resolutions, improved audio features, and a revamped interface. Notable advancements include an increase in bandwidth: HDMI 2.2 boosts the capacity from 48 Gbps to 96 Gbps, in comparison to HDMI 2.1. This enhancement facilitates the transmission of a greater volume of data through the cable.
HDMI version 2.2 is capable of delivering content at resolutions of up to 4K at 480 Hz, 8K at 240 Hz, and even 10K at 120 Hz. Additionally, it includes support for emerging resolutions of 12K and 16K, which are new to this standard. This represents a quality that is 16 times greater than Full HD. The next-generation HDMI connection technology, featuring a fixed rate, will guarantee stable audio and video transmission, even at elevated data rates.
LIP Delay Indication Protocol
The newly introduced LIP Latency Indication Protocol effectively addresses audio-video latency and synchronization challenges associated with soundbars and other external speakers. This advancement will significantly minimize issues related to speech and lip synchronization. Furthermore, HDMI 2.2 will utilize the Ultra 96 cable, which will undergo testing and certification to comply with updated performance standards.
These new cables will feature a certification label and are expected to be available in the latter half of 2025. While the latest HDMI version may not introduce numerous new features, it enhances critical aspects to align with the evolving demands of the entertainment sector. A comparison table has been provided to highlight the distinctions between the new HDMI version and its predecessor.
Additionally, let’s discuss the benefits of increased bandwidth. The enhanced bandwidth of the HDMI 2.2 cable enables it to transmit a greater volume of data. While HDMI 2.1 has a maximum bandwidth of 48 Gbps, the new HDMI 2.2 standard can achieve up to 96 Gbps. This doubling of capacity allows the new cable to accommodate significantly higher refresh rates and resolutions compared to the existing standard.
| HDMI 2.2 | HDMI 2.1 | |
| Release date | January 6, 2025 | November 28, 2017 |
| Bandwidth | 96 Gbps | 48 Gbps |
| Resolutions and frame rates | 8K@240Hz, 10K@120Hz, (also 12K and 16K) | Up to 10K, 8K@60Hz |
| Synchronization technologies | Lipsing indication protocol | Automatic Low Latency Mode (ALLM) |
| Cable type | HDMI Ultra96 Certified Cable | Ultra High Speed HDMI cable |
Support for higher resolutions
HDMI 2.2 offers significantly increased bandwidth, enabling it to handle higher resolutions effectively. But what is the real significance of this advancement? The new specification supports 4K at 480Hz, 8K at 240Hz, and 10K at 120Hz, with capabilities extending to 12K and 16K. This represents a substantial improvement over the existing HDMI 2.1b standard, which is limited to 8K at 60Hz and a maximum of 10K.
While these high specifications may appear excessive given the current scarcity of 8K TVs and monitors, they will prove beneficial for applications in virtual reality and holographic light field headsets. It is evident that higher resolutions are becoming increasingly prevalent over time, making this forward-looking capacity a valuable asset.
New audio sync
The enhancements mentioned will primarily demonstrate their benefits in the future; however, the newly introduced Latency Indication Protocol, also known as Enhanced Lip Sync, is a feature that many users will find beneficial right now. It effectively minimizes latency and enhances the alignment between the visual content on your display and the audio output. In essence, it addresses lip sync discrepancies, a frequent issue encountered with multi-node systems like external speakers or soundbars.
This new standard will be implemented in a cable referred to as Ultra96, which differs from the current Ultra High Speed cable. While the HDMI 2.2 cable will maintain the same port design, the new certification will feature the HDMI Ultra96 badge. This guarantees that users can fully utilize all the new functionalities previously mentioned.
HDMI 2.2 and DisplayPort 2.1. Which is better?
DisplayPort 2.1 stands out with its impressive bandwidth of 80 Gbps, enabling 8K resolution with HDR at 60 Hz or 4K at 144 Hz. This capability sets a high benchmark for both gaming and content creation. A significant benefit of DP 2.1 is its compatibility with USB-C, allowing for the connection of multiple high-resolution displays.
For those immersed in a high-performance gaming environment or engaged in content production where precision is crucial, DisplayPort 2.1 is the optimal choice. Conversely, if your primary focus is enjoying high-definition movies or playing console games comfortably from your couch, HDMI 2.2 would be the more suitable option.
When will HDMI 2.2 be available?
The official announcement indicates that the Ultra96 HDMI 2.2 cable is anticipated to be available in the market during the first half of 2025. Nevertheless, devices compatible with this new standard are not expected to emerge until the latter part of this year. Greater adoption of the standard will likely be observed as an increasing number of devices utilize its capabilities.
HDMI 2.2 and HDMI 2.1 Compatibility
It is important to highlight that HDMI 2.2 will maintain backward compatibility. A device equipped with an HDMI 2.2 port will be able to connect to older equipment that utilizes an HDMI 2.1 port or an HDMI 2.1 cable. Given that the cable configurations are quite similar, we can anticipate that the transition will occur more swiftly than expected. However, is there a genuine necessity for an HDMI 2.2 port at this time?
HDMI 2.2 is particularly advantageous for enhancing resolution and refresh rates. Currently, there is a limited amount of ultra-high-definition content and compatible devices available. We have reached the limits of HDMI 2.1, and as technology advances, we are likely to explore higher resolutions in the future.
Eventually, HDMI 2.2 will become as prevalent as the current standard. Nevertheless, at this moment, there is no pressing need to upgrade, even for gaming purposes. You can continue utilizing your existing cable for the next few years without concern for obsolescence.
In the realm of video gaming, HDMI 2.2 may be excessive. Its primary applications are likely to be found in specialized industrial audiovisual setups, such as video walls, conference rooms, exhibitions, and outdoor advertising, where large resolutions are essential. However, these displays typically rely on proprietary connections that utilize fiber optics and Ethernet.
Nonetheless, HDMI 2.2 could pave the way for the broader adoption of 12-bit panels in televisions and monitors. Finding 12-bit content is currently easier than sourcing ultra-high resolutions and refresh rates. For instance, Dolby Vision already supports this color depth in its profile 7 for 4K Blu-Ray discs. While I remain optimistic about this development, it is worth noting that HDMI 2.1 made similar claims.