HDMI Forum, Inc. announced the launch of HDMI Specification Version 2.2, which includes increased bandwidth support and introduces the Ultra96 feature to help users identify compatible HDMI cables.
HDMI 2.2
Supporting up to 96 Gbps, HDMI 2.2 uses the latest Fixed Rate Link (FRL) technology to deliver more efficient video and audio transmission across supported devices. It also adds Latency Indication Protocol (LIP), which helps reduce sync issues when multiple devices like soundbars or AV systems are connected.
Ultra96 Feature Name and HDMI Cable
Products carrying the Ultra96 label comply with HDMI 2.2 and support bandwidths of 64, 80, or 96 Gbps. They must be used with the Ultra96 HDMI Cable, designed to support up to 96 Gbps and all HDMI 2.2 features.
The cable undergoes certification through HDMI’s official program, with each length tested and labeled. It succeeds the Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable, which supports up to 48 Gbps.
The Ultra96 tag can be used on:
- HDMI ports
- Product literature
- Setup guides
- On-screen displays
- Packaging
- Advertised specs
Key Features of HDMI 2.2
Fixed Rate Link (FRL): The updated FRL technology supports high-bandwidth uses such as AR, VR, MR, spatial displays, medical imaging, machine vision, and digital signage. It enables smooth playback of uncompressed formats like 4K at 240Hz.
Broader Format Compatibility: HDMI 2.2 supports a wider range of uncompressed and compressed formats with enhanced chroma sampling for better video quality.
Higher Resolutions and Frame Rates: Uncompressed formats now include 8K at 60Hz and 4K at 240Hz with full 4:4:4 chroma at 10- and 12-bit depth. Compressed formats enable even higher outputs:
- 4K @ 480Hz
- 5K @ 240Hz
- 8K @ 240Hz
- 10K @ 120Hz
- 12K @ 120Hz
- 16K @ 60Hz
Quick specifications
- Speed & Bandwidth: Up to 96 Gbps with Fixed Rate Link (FRL); older versions: 2.1 (48 Gbps), 2.0 (18 Gbps), 1.4 (10.2 Gbps).
- Cables & Certification: Needs Ultra96 HDMI Cable for 64/80/96 Gbps; cables certified and labeled
- Video: Supports 4K@480Hz, 5K@240Hz, 8K@240Hz, 10K@120Hz, 12K@120Hz, 16K@60Hz; color depth up to 12-bit; formats: RGB, 4:4:4, 4:2:2, 4:2:0.
- Gaming: Features VRR, ALLM, QFT, QMS.
- Audio & Sync: Includes eARC and Latency Indication Protocol (LIP) for better sync.
- Picture: Dynamic HDR and Source-Based Tone Mapping (SBTM).
Availability
The Ultra96 HDMI Cable is expected to be available in the market during Q3 or Q4 of 2025.
