MHL 3.0 spec unveil brings promise of 4K video support

MHL (Mobile High-Definition Link) is something that allows Android users to send video from their devices. And while many users have likely never heard this term, we are now seeing the latest specs coming from the consortium. This includes details of MHL 3.0 which brings the promise of 4K video support, support for simultaneous multiple displays and more.

First things first though, details show that the MHL 3.0 specification will be available for download in early-September. Of course, this isn’t something that will be downloaded and installed by the end user. Instead this is being made available for the manufacturers which means MHL 3.0 is something that will begin showing up on devices at some point in the future.

That being said, the MHL 3.0 specification list includes the following items;

• Improved Remote Control Protocol (RCP) with support for peripherals such as a touch screen, keyboard and mouse
• Power charging up to 10W
• Latest HDCP 2.2 content protection
• Enhanced 7.1 surround sound with Dolby® TrueHD and DTS-HD
• Support for simultaneous multiple displays
• Simultaneous high-speed data channel
• Connector agnostic – uses as few as five pins

And as one would expect and/or hope to see, MHL 3.0 brings backward compatibility with 1.0 and 2.0. Touching back on the 4K support and we learn that MHL 3.0 will bring support of 4K formats up to 2160p30. Breaking this down a bit further and we find that MHL talks of the “experience” which includes home theater, mobile gaming, office and automotive.

These items bring the promise of being able to send 4K video from your smartphone to your television, be able to play your mobile games on a 4K screen with no lag (while the television is powering your smartphone), be able to transform a mobile device into a full workstation by attaching a keyboard, mouse and monitor(s) and to be able to access and control your smartphone using the in-car system (while the car powers your device).