USB-C Gets HDMI Mode

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The HDMI Founders announce an HDMI Alternative Mode for the USB Type-C specification, allowing the connection of HDMI-enabled displays to video sources via USB-C, with no need for additional protocols or adapters.

HDMI USB-CAs announcement press release puts it, "this enables two of the most popular solutions for connectivity to come together-- the small form factor, reversible, and multi-purpose USB Type-C connector being adopted by smartphones, tablets and PC products, and HDMI, which is the leading display interface with an installed base of billions of displays."

HDMI Alt Mode includes all HDMI 1.4b features, including video resolutions up to 4K, Audio Return Channel (ARC), 3D, HDMI Ethernet Channel and Consumer Electronic Control (CEC). The HDMI cable uses the USB-C connector on the source side and any HDMI connector on the display side, all without adapters or dongles.

“USB Type-C is quickly becoming the connector of choice for many types of consumer electronics products wanting a single solution for audio, video, data and power,” the USB Implementers Forum says. “Easily connecting devices with USB Type-C to the huge installed base of HDMI-enabled TVs is a substantial benefit to consumers. We’re also coordinating with HDMI Licensing to ensure consumers can recognize when HDMI Alt Mode is supported on USB Type-C devices.”

Go HDMI Releases Alternate Mode for USB-C Connector