HDMI 1.4 brings web to TV sets

A new version of the HDMI standard supports an Ethernet channel, allowing TVs to use the digital video links to connect to home networks and the internet.

The version 1.4 specification, unveiled today, defines an HDMI Ethernet Channel (HEC), allowing data transfers of up to 100Mbits/sec in either direction.

HDMI 1.4 also includes an Audio Return Channel (ARC), allowing sound to be streamed to an external device.

Other new features announced by the governing body, the HDMI Licensing LLC, are:

• Definitions of 3D formats and resolutions for HDMI-enabled devices with dual-stream resolution up to 1080p
• Support for resolutions beyond 1080p, including 3,840x2,160 at 24Hz, 25Hz or 30Hz, and 4,096x2,160 at 24Hz
• Support for colour spaces used by digital still cameras, including YCC601, Adobe RGB and AdobeYCC601
• A 19-pin Micro HDMI connector supporting up to 1080p for portable devices
• A specification for in-car HD content distribution

But the new specification brings in a confusion of different cables: standard for data rates of up to 1080i at 60Hz; high speed for rates above that, including those for 3D; standard with Ethernet; high speed with Ethernet; and automotive for vehicles.

The full spec will be released at the end of June.