New Delhi: After much buzz since its CES 2025 reveal, the HDMI Forum has finally released the HDMI 2.2 specification today. The new update promises a massive upgrade in bandwidth and future-proofing for devices, though manufacturers may take time before the first products hit the market.

With the HDMI 2.1 standard around since 2017 and many companies still not using it fully, HDMI 2.2 could be the long-overdue jump that powers the next generation of displays, gaming rigs and home theatres. And with Ultra96 HDMI cables now officially part of the announcement, picking the right cable may finally get a bit easier.

Ultra96 HDMI cables support up to 96Gbps

The big headline is bandwidth. HDMI 2.2 now supports up to 96Gbps with new Ultra96-certified cables, compared to 48Gbps under HDMI 2.1. This means users can expect formats like 4K at 480Hz, 8K at 240Hz, and even 16K at 60Hz. Also supported are uncompressed formats with 10-bit and 12-bit color in high-end formats like 8K at 60Hz or 4K at 240Hz.

The Ultra96 label will show users that their cable supports full HDMI 2.2 features, clearing some of the confusion caused by older naming systems like “High Speed” or “Premium High Speed.”

LIP improves sound-video sync

HDMI 2.2 also includes Latency Indication Protocol, or LIP, which helps fix audio-video sync issues in setups where the signal passes through multiple devices. It builds on earlier features introduced in HDMI 2.1 and will be helpful in soundbar or AV receiver configurations.

Chandlee Harrell, president of HDMI Forum, said the group is proud to release the update, calling it a step toward “exciting and immersive new solutions.”

The HDMI Forum also clarified that cables will still need to be certified under its Cable Certification Program, ensuring quality across different lengths.

The Ultra96 HDMI Cable is expected to be available later this year. Till then, current Ultra High Speed cables (supporting 48Gbps) will remain in use. Whether console makers, TV brands, or AV giants adopt HDMI 2.2 quickly is another story. But the groundwork for 16K is finally here.