In 2025, China has introduced a bold new contender in the world of audio-visual connectivity: GPMI (General Purpose Multimedia Interface). Positioned as a homegrown alternative to HDMI, GPMI is engineered to redefine how TVs, monitors, gaming consoles, and multimedia devices communicate with one another. As China seeks to reduce dependency on foreign tech standards and forge a self-reliant digital future, GPMI could be the next global disruptor in home entertainment and professional AV setups.

Here’s a deep dive into what GPMI is, how it works, and why it could reshape the global television and display connectivity landscape.

What Is GPMI? A New Multimedia Standard Built in China

GPMI, short for General Purpose Multimedia Interface, is a digital AV interface developed by a consortium of Chinese tech giants, including major TV manufacturers and chipmakers. It is designed to serve as a technologically advanced and royalty-free substitute for the widely adopted HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) standard.

Unlike HDMI, which is managed by an international licensing group requiring annual fees and compliance, GPMI is open and domestically controlled, offering Chinese firms greater control over costs, intellectual property, and future development.

Key Features and Technical Advantages of GPMI

GPMI doesn’t just aim to replicate HDMI—it seeks to improve upon it with a suite of cutting-edge features:

• High Bandwidth Transmission: GPMI supports data speeds up to 48 Gbps, allowing seamless playback of 8K video at 60Hz, or 4K at 120Hz, with HDR enabled.

• Low Latency Audio and Video Sync: Engineered for gaming and real-time content with minimal lag.

• Multi-Channel Audio Support: Includes support for Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and other high-end audio formats.

• Display Stream Compression (DSC): Efficient compression that maintains quality while reducing bandwidth load.

• Extended Cable Lengths: Optimized signal processing for longer cable runs without signal degradation.

One standout element of GPMI is its ability to handle multiple display streams over a single connection, making it ideal for professional use cases like multi-screen setups and digital signage.

Why GPMI Could Be a Game-Changer Globally

The development of GPMI represents more than just a new cable—it signals China’s strategic move to break from foreign tech standards. Currently, HDMI dominates the global AV market, but it comes with:

• Expensive licensing fees

• Intellectual property restrictions

• Dependency on Western consortiums for updates

By launching GPMI, China ensures greater autonomy over hardware standards, while offering its partners and manufacturers a more cost-effective and customizable alternative. https://www.choose.tv/us/news/gpmi-a-chinese-attack-on-hdmi-the-new-standard-could-shake-up-the-world-of-televisions_ALI

If Chinese TV brands like Hisense, TCL, and Xiaomi adopt GPMI across their product lines, we could see millions of GPMI-enabled devices in homes within a few years. From a business perspective, this could undercut HDMI’s monopoly and spark a new standard war.

GPMI vs. HDMI 2.1: A Comparative Snapshot

Functionally, GPMI offers equivalent (if not better) performance compared to HDMI 2.1. Its biggest advantage lies in eliminating licensing fees, which could lower costs for manufacturers and consumers alike.

Which Brands Are Likely to Adopt GPMI First?

Several Chinese tech manufacturers are already hinting at early integration of GPMI into their next-generation devices:

• Hisense and TCL have announced plans to offer GPMI-compatible ports on select 2025 4K and 8K TVs.

• Xiaomi is reportedly developing set-top boxes and smartphones with GPMI output functionality.

• BOE and Skyworth, leading display panel producers, have begun prototyping GPMI-enabled displays for both consumer and commercial use.

There’s also speculation that Chinese PC motherboard manufacturers may adopt GPMI as a low-cost AV output solution.

Potential Global Impact and Adoption Challenges

If GPMI sees widespread adoption in China—a market with over 400 million smart TVs—global manufacturers and accessory makers may be pressured to include dual-interface compatibility in future products.

However, challenges remain:

• Global Awareness and Ecosystem: HDMI has decades of global brand equity and a mature accessory ecosystem.

• Backward Compatibility: GPMI is not natively compatible with HDMI, requiring adapters or converters.

• Software and Firmware Updates: Streaming platforms and operating systems may need optimization to support GPMI hardware.

Despite these hurdles, the geopolitical drive and cost-saving benefits are powerful motivators for GPMI’s continued evolution and possible expansion beyond China.

The Future: Will GPMI Replace HDMI?

It’s too early to declare GPMI as a total HDMI replacement. However, its launch marks a pivotal moment in the global tech supply chain. With backing from the Chinese government and major tech firms, GPMI could grow to dominate in domestic and allied markets within the next five years.

If Western brands decide to offer dual-port solutions or if international accessory makers create GPMI-compatible products, it could very well enter mainstream global use—especially in the value-oriented electronics segment.

Conclusion: GPMI’s Bold Mission to Transform AV Connectivity

GPMI isn’t just another AV cable—it represents a bold shift in global tech sovereignty, innovation, and standard-setting. With top-tier performance specs, no licensing costs, and strong industry support in Asia, GPMI is poised to challenge the HDMI status quo and reshape the global AV interface landscape.

As TVs, game consoles, and multimedia devices evolve, it’s clear that GPMI could be the connection that links the future of AV to a new, more open standard.