Here we are, once more, as the Alliance unveils the GPMI – a new venture in the offing.
The General Purpose Media Interface (GPMI), a new display and media connectivity standard, is making waves in the industry, particularly in China. Emerging as a potential replacement for HDMI and USB-C, GPMI promises to address the bandwidth limitations and power delivery shortcomings of existing interfaces[1][4][5].
At its core, GPMI offers two cable options: a USB-C version supporting up to 96 Gbps (similar to HDMI 2.2) and a proprietary Type-B cable supporting up to 192 Gbps—double the speed of HDMI 2.2 and four times that of HDMI 2.1[1][5]. This positions GPMI to handle next-generation applications such as 8K video, high-refresh-rate gaming, and future immersive technologies.
Unlike HDMI, which transmits only data and audio, GPMI can also deliver significant power—up to 240W via USB-C and 480W via Type-B[1][4]. This enables devices like TVs to power external devices (e.g., consoles, amplifiers) directly, reducing the need for separate power supplies.
The USB-C version of GPMI is compatible with existing USB-C ports, potentially easing adoption for devices supporting USB-C, though the Type-B connector is proprietary[1][4]. Beyond audio and video, GPMI can transmit general data, similar to USB-C and Thunderbolt interfaces, adding flexibility for device interconnectivity and charging[1][4].
GPMI is backed by Chinese industry alliances, such as the Shenzhen 8K UHD Video Industry Cooperation Alliance, and companies like Hisense are exploring integration—but these players have limited global A/V market influence compared to Western and Korean giants[1]. The outcome of GPMI's potential impact on the industry is uncertain, with some reservations about yet another I/O port due to a past relationship with Apple's Lightning cable[2].
HDMI, on the other hand, is integrated into nearly every TV, streaming device, console, and PC sold worldwide, making it the de facto A/V standard[3]. HDMI continues to evolve, and USB-C/Thunderbolt already handle power, data, and (to some degree) video. Convincing consumer electronics and computer manufacturers to replace HDMI with GPMI globally would likely require a compelling, universal advantage not met by current standards[4].
The prospects for widespread adoption outside China are challenging. GPMI is still new and under development, particularly in chipset implementation and broader ecosystem support[1]. The proprietary Type-B connector may face resistance outside China, as global consumers and manufacturers are wary of yet another non-universal port[1][4]. However, the USB-C variant could gain traction if its advantages over HDMI (power, data, speed) are leveraged in laptops, monitors, and portable devices—especially as USB-C itself is widely adopted[1][4].
In conclusion, GPMI offers significant technical improvements over HDMI and could potentially streamline both professional and consumer AV setups[1][4][5]. However, its industry adoption beyond China faces substantial hurdles due to HDMI’s global entrenchment, the proprietary nature of its Type-B connector, and established alternatives like USB-C/Thunderbolt. If GPMI gains real momentum, it is more likely to do so via the USB-C variant in specific device categories, or through partnerships with major global brands—but for now, widespread international adoption remains uncertain[1][4].
Products equipped with GPMI, the emerging display and media connectivity standard, can potentially transmit general data, similar to USB-C and Thunderbolt interfaces, adding flexibility for device interconnectivity and charging. GPMI technology, with its power delivery capabilities up to 240W via USB-C and 480W via Type-B, can enable devices like TVs to power external devices directly, reducing the need for separate power supplies.
