HDMI Licensing, LLC, today announced the features that will be added to HDMI standard in upcoming HDMI 1.4 specifications. The latest version of HDMI specification will offer Ethernet connectivity, Audio Return Channel and higher video resolution. The 1.4 specifications will be available for download on HDMI LLC website on June 30, 2009.

The HDMI Ethernet Channel will allow an Internet enabled HDMI device to share its Internet connection with other HDMI devices without the need for a separate Ethernet cable. The Audio Return Channel will reduce the number of cable required to deliver audio upstream for processing and playback. The HDMI 1.4 will also be able to support 3D 1080p video, along with support for 4K x 2K resolution video at 24Hz. HDMI LLC will also release specification for 19-pin Micro HDMI connector that is 50 percent smaller than existing HDMI Mini connector. Micro HDMI will support up to 1080p video.

Consumers will have five confusing HDMI cable choices Standard HDMI cable –supports data rates up to 1080i/60; High Speed HDMI cable –Supports data rates beyond 1080p with 3D format; Standard HDMI cable with Ethernet – data rate up to 1080i/60 with Ethernet connectivity; High Speed HDMI cable with Ethernet –includes Ethernet connectivity; and Automotive HDMI cable – allows the connection of external HDMI-enabled devices to an in-vehicle HDMI device. Why can’t they make one cable that does everything?

We should see use of HDMI 1.4 specifications in devices later this year.