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HDMI 2.2 takes another step closer to our homes. Silkland has started taking orders for Ultra96-certified H96 cables, and Elecom has also announced its own models. The new cables offer bandwidth of up to 96 Gbps, twice that of current Ultra High Speed HDMI (2.1). That’s the headroom needed to carry 16K video at higher refresh rates. Of course, assuming the connected devices support it. 😉
Silkland has prepared variants in 2 and 3 metre lengths. Each has a separate certificate whose authenticity can be verified via a QR code on the packaging. Orders are already available, but the manufacturer says shipments will begin in the week beginning 5 October. Elecom, meanwhile, plans to launch its cables in mid-November.
Also be sceptical of promotional graphics suggesting a new cable will improve HDR or eliminate motion blur. Current HDMI cables already support HDR transmission. If the cable is working and has enough bandwidth for the chosen resolution and refresh rate, swapping it for an Ultra96 won't improve colours or motion clarity. You don't need to replace a properly functioning cable just because the packaging of a newer one promises a better picture.
A two-metre Silkland H96 costs $32.99, while Elecom has priced its cable of the same length at ¥13,310 including tax on the Japanese market. For now, the Ultra96 remains mainly a purchase made with future devices in mind. If the new cables arrive in our stores with a large premium over HDMI 2.1 cables, most users will have no reason to pay extra for such a cable. If prices are similar, when setting up a new system at home you could consider a certified Ultra96 cable: it will support current equipment, and the extra bandwidth headroom might come in handy when that equipment is later replaced.
Source: Silkland, Elecom.
