A new cable designed to replace HDMI and USB has been launched by a group of Chinese tech companies. This new cable offers better data bandwidth and power capabilities than current standards.
The GPMI Cable: What’s New?
The General Purpose Media Interface (GPMI) integrates several functions into one cable. It can handle video, data, network connection, and power supply. While USB cables can perform similar tasks, GPMI delivers higher throughput for all of these functions.
Impressive Specifications
The Shenzhen 8K UHD Video Industry Cooperation Alliance revealed the most powerful version of GPMI. This version supports a massive 192Gbps bandwidth—over double the 80Gbps USB4 V2 supports. Additionally, it can deliver up to 480W of power, which is nearly five times the 100W of power USB4 and Thunderbolt cables provide.
View this post on Instagram
GPMI: Powering More Devices
While USB4 can charge smaller devices like phones and laptops, GPMI is designed to power energy-intensive devices. It can charge flat-screen TVs, powerful desktop computers, and household appliances. GPMI also supports 8K video transmission, which is still rare but is expected to become more common soon.
GPMI Type C: A More Compact Version
The alliance also introduced a more compact version, GPMI Type C. This version uses the USB-C form factor but offers increased data bandwidth of 96Gbps and up to 240W of power.
GPMI’s Importance for Future Development
Chinese chipmaker HiSilicon explained that GPMI is “urgently” needed. Current technologies place limits on the “future development needs” of tech companies. GPMI will also help simplify the confusion of multiple cables like Ethernet, HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB C.
Daisy-Chaining Technology
A standout feature of GPMI is its daisy-chaining capability. Multiple devices can be connected in a series, all powered by one outlet. Data flows seamlessly between devices.
First Use on Chinese Smart TVs
The Cooperation Alliance mentioned that GPMI technology will first appear on smart TVs from Chinese brands. Western and Japanese companies have not yet announced if they will adopt this new standard.
