DisplayPort and HDMI: Battle for HD Connection Market

In the battle for High Definition connectivity, two technologies have become the dominant market holders. DisplayPort (DP) and High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) have virtually eliminated the older connectivity of VGA and DVI. These two technologies are not competing directly against each other, but have instead dominated different segments of the A/V connectivity market.

DisplayPort technology is becoming the HD connection of choice for the PC and mobile computing market. According to iSuppli forecasts, “…global shipments of DisplayPort-enabled equipment will grow to 263.3 million units by 2012, up from zero in 2007.” The DisplayPort interface will begin to replace the older VGA and DVI on PC monitors and in desktop and notebook PCs. Intel, AMD, and Nvidia have announced their intention of adopting DisplayPort in future products.

HDMI has focused on the Consumer Electronics markets and has been able to make amazing gains in market share. One iSuppli report states, “HDMI-enabled equipment will grow to 772.8 million units in 2012, rising at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 32% from 193 million units in 2007.” HDMI has become the de-facto connection for Blu-ray players, DVD players, video-game consoles, and flat-panel HD televisions.

What does this struggle for market dominance mean for the final consumer? Consumers can start to look forward to simplified connectivity, no matter which technology wins out. Most experts do not anticipate for either technology to replace the other anytime soon. With the use of adapters, the two technologies can even co-exist and still provide the best HD available. Expect to see more of these connections as both take over their own segments of the HD market.