The GPMI (General Purpose Media Interface) interface, proposed as a standard in China, is intended to transport video signals, audio signals, and other data in a single cable connection that can even provide up to 480 watts of power.
It was developed by the Shenzhen 8K UHD Video Industry Cooperation Alliance, which is working towards a universal connection for all applications.
In fact, with the announced specifications, almost all modern devices could find a connection - except for computers with extremely high GPU power requirements. More than 50 Chinese companies such as Huawei, Sharp, and Hisense are working on the new standard.
GPMI to come in two connector variants
Upon release, GPMI will be available in two different versions: GPMI Type-C is said to be compatible with USB-C and also fit into corresponding ports. Reportedly, there is already a green light from the USB Association for this. However, GPMI Type-C will be limited to a maximum data rate of 96 Gbit/s and 240 watts of power transmission - which is roughly comparable to Thunderbolt 4, which can transmit 2 × 40 Gbit/s bidirectionally.
At the same time, a new connector is being introduced with GPMI-B. Like USB-C, this cannot be inserted upside down, but it has a rectangular design and, in addition to 480 watts, is also said to be able to transmit 24 Gbit/s on 8 channels - which in combination should allow a maximum of 192 Gbit/s in one direction.
Especially in the current international turmoil, it is of course questionable how and when a corresponding standard will be adopted in Western countries. The Shenzhen 8K UHD Video Industry Cooperation Alliance expects broad availability no earlier than 2027. Whether this will then primarily apply to the Asian region will depend on more factors than the technical maturity of GPMI.
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