HDMI 2.1a와 그 이후의 미래

## HDMI 2.1a: Source-Based Tone Mapping

The main addition in 2.1a is SBTM — letting the source device (GPU, console) handle HDR tone mapping instead of the TV. This ensures consistent HDR across different displays without calibration.

## What's Next for HDMI?

The HDMI Forum hasn't announced 2.2, but the industry needs:
- **Higher bandwidth**: 80+ Gbps to match DisplayPort 2.1
- **Better HDR**: Dynamic metadata improvements beyond HDR10+
- **Lower latency**: Sub-1ms for cloud gaming
- **Fiber optic HDMI standardization**: Currently proprietary

## The USB-C Challenge

USB-C with DP Alt Mode can carry HDMI signal via protocol conversion. As more TVs add USB-C ports, the HDMI connector itself may become less common — even if the HDMI protocol continues. Samsung's 2024 TVs already have USB-C input.

## Prediction

HDMI will remain the TV standard for at least another decade, but the connector form factor may gradually shift to USB-C for thin devices.