HDMI Forum has officially announced the second version of the HDMI specification.

It has many benefits. For instance, HDMI 2.0 has more bandwidth – now offering up to 18Gbps. It also provides more clarity when it comes to video resolution. Other benefits are 32 audio channels and automatic lip-sync.

News reports also highlight how it can get up to 1536kHz audio sample frequency, as well as dual video streams for users on a single screen. Or, when it comes to multi-stream audio it can be used by up to four users at the same time. It also has support for 21:9 widescreen displays.

"The introduction of the HDMI 2.0 Specification represents a major milestone for the HDMI Forum," Robert Blanchard of Sony Corporation, who is also president of the HDMI Forum, said in an organizational statement. "Our members collaborated closely to take the highly successful HDMI Specification to the next level by expanding audio and video features for consumer electronics applications."

HDMI 2.0 does not require new cables or new connectors. Current category 2 cables can handle the increased bandwidth found in the new version.

It was also announced that adopters can get the second version from the HDMI Adopter Extranet.

In looking at the new specification, Engadget said it comes with the expected rollout of new versions of ultra high definition televisions (HDTVs). In fact, company officials are telling the news media that “high-end” television products that can use HDMI 2.0 will be found in stores for sale by this winter and spring. Look forward to other products, perhaps less expensive ones, to be in stores in the fall and winter of 2014, news reports add.

GigaOM said the second version will lead to more powerful remote controls, as well.

HDMI 2.0 is the first specification to be developed by the HDMI Forum. The HDMI Forum's Technical Working Group has among its 88 members manufacturers of cables, components, consumer electronics, mobile devices, and PCs.