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HDMI 2.2 demo confirmed for CES 2026 with 500Hz monitor running on gaming PC and Xbox Series X

The first hands-on preview of HDMI 2.2 tech at
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HDMI 2.2 demo confirmed for CES 2026 with 500Hz monitor running on gaming PC and Xbox Series X
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We got to see the HDMI 2.2 specs being finalized nearly six months ago, and it’s almost time to see what the latest display standard is capable of in practice. We already know that it can support up to 96GB/s of data bandwidth, double that of HDMI 2.1, and the namesake for the ‘Ultra96’ HDMI cable being demoed at CES 2026, which kicks off on January 6, 2026.

HDMI Licensing Administrator, Inc. (HDMI LA) has now confirmed its upcoming CES showcase, revealing that the HDMI 2.2 specification will be “on display with early prototypes” at the company’s showfloor booth. This will be through the new Ultra96 cable, while two other HDMI cable types will demo “interactive gaming” with ‘Ultra High Speed’ and ‘Premium High Speed’ standards.

HDMI 2.2 at CES 2026 with Ultra96 HDMI cable, and more

We’re more than familiar with HDMI 2.1, which arrived in time to power current-generation consoles and 4K gaming monitors – thanks to support for 4K 120Hz (and even 144Hz, though it isn’t always advertised as such). So, with HDMI 2.2 being the next innovation, we’re keen to see manufacturers usher in the next generation of compatible tech.

HDMI 2.2 offers 4K 480Hz, 8K 240 FPS, and 10K 120 FPS support.


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The booth will feature the performance benefits of three HDMI cable types across interactive gaming demonstrations:

  • Ultra96 HDMI Cable, introduced in the recently released HDMI 2.2 Specification, will be on display with early prototypes
  • Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable
  • Premium High Speed HDMI Cable

These demonstrations will highlight how the right HDMI connectivity drives exceptional performance for next-generation gaming experiences.

Key Gaming Demonstrations

  • High-Refresh Rate Performance – Showcasing the visual experience of a 500Hz gaming monitor powered by both an Xbox Series X and a high-performance, gaming-optimized PC, delivering ultra-smooth motion and lightning-fast responsiveness.
  • Portable Console Big-Screen Gaming – Demonstrating how today’s popular portable gaming consoles – including the Nintendo Switch 2 and Atari Gamestation Go – seamlessly connect to HDTVs using HDMI technology for big-screen gameplay, group entertainment, and immersive audio through eARC-enabled soundbars or multi-speaker systems.
  • Modernized Retro Gaming Fun – Showing the latest retro-style gaming systems connected via HDMI cables for nostalgic gameplay upgraded with UltraHD video and audio on large displays.

Additional Advanced Gaming Enhancements on Display

  • Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) for smoother, tear-free frame visuals
  • Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) allowing for smooth, lag-free and uninterrupted interactivity
  • Quick Frame Transport (QFT) for reduced latency and more immediate player feedback
Source: HDMI LA

CES is one of the biggest events in the tech industry calendar, taking place in Las Vegas, Nevada. Elsewhere at the conference, we’ll get to see LG’s own Micro RGB TV technology, following in Samsung’s footsteps. There’s also a leaked ultrawide Lenovo gaming laptop we’re curious to see more of (assuming the leak is real). And, speaking of Lenovo, we’ve already seen that Nvidia, AMD, and Intel CEOs will be speaking at Lenovo’s Tech World event as part of CES 2026.


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About the Author

At PC Guide, Jack is mostly responsible for reporting on hardware deals. He also specializes in monitors, TVs, and headsets and can be found putting his findings together in a review or best-of guide.