HDMI 1.4: New video cables will connect TVs to the Internet

(AP) -- Digital video and audio cables, similar to the ones that already connect TVs to DVD players, cable boxes and receivers, will soon come with a new capability: connecting those devices to the Internet.

Manufacturers said Thursday that version 1.4 of the HDMI standard, for High-Definition Multimedia Interface, includes a data networking feature.

That means that a set-top box that connects to the Internet could share its connection with other devices in the entertainment center, for easier access to Web video, e-mail and news, says Steve Venuti, president and CEO of HDMI Licensing.

Devices with HDMI 1.4 ports could show up in small numbers before the holidays, and in larger volumes early next year, the group said. New cables will be needed to take advantage of the networking feature.

©2009 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.