CES 2017 – You guys should all know how much of a resolution enthusiast I am, so the news of the HDMI 2.1 specification has me beyond excited.
HDMI 2.1 will support a wide range of resolutions and refresh rates, including 4K 120Hz, 8K 120Hz, and even 10K. Yes, 10K. HDMI 2.1 also includes something called Game Mode VRR, which “features variable refresh rate, which enables a 3D graphics processor to display the image at the moment it is rendered for more fluid and better detailed gameplay, and for reducing or eliminating lag, stutter, and frame tearing”.
The ‘Game Mode VRR’ is an interesting addition, which can be explained as a wide-reaching version of G-Sync and FreeSync. The HDMI Forum says that it’ll work on both PCs and consoles, so we definitely need to try that out as soon as we can.
You’ll need the new 48G cable for the higher resolutions, as well as a new HDMI 2.1-based TV or display to enjoy things like 8K or 10K at 120Hz. The new 48G cable increases the bandwidth available considerably from the current 18Gbps, which is an obvious push because 8K/10K at 120Hz is really quite insane.
But still, freakin’ 8K and 10K at 120Hz?! Sign me up.
NEWS SOURCES:Appleinsider.com, Anandtech.com