Heron Fidelity

Mobile device manufacturers are making it easier to connect their desirable hand-held high-resolution screens to a HDTV - an item increasingly likely to be listed among a mobile device owner's possessions.  Micro HDMI output is available on several handsets and tablets providing an easy connection using a simple converter cable.

What's new-er is MHL or Mobile High-Definition Link: a standard that can squeeze HDMI from unexpected places including the popular micro USB port found on many smartphones.  The MHL spec is similar to HDMI in the home with up to 1080p60 video and 7.1-channel sound from capable devices.  MHL also incorporates the all-important ability to recharge a device when connected and in use.

My experience with MHL on my Samsung Galaxy SIII has been rewardingly easy.  Branded and generic MHL adapter cables are available online - a 2-meter adapter cable (pictured above) cost me about $11.  Add a wireless Bluetooth keyboard for easy texting, Tweeting, and web surfing from the comfort of your favorite spot.  With many HDTVs providing at least one USB port, I'm able to connect the HDMI/USB end of the adapter to non-MHL TVs and still receive adequate power to charge the mobile device.  MHL-enabled HDTVs should provide adequate power without the need for the additional USB connection.

MHL also leverages CEC (Consumer Electronic Control) allowing for HDTV remote control commands to be passed to the connected device potentially simplifying app use in a home theater environment.

While few if any mobile apps provide native 1080p video output or more than 2-channel stereo sound, the convenience and performance of having an already-customized device at the ready to enjoy with a simple cable connection may bring some entertainment joy to road-weary business travelers and parents alike.

Gaming on the big screen was fun - widescreen games scaled very nicely to full-screen, and vertically-orientated titles were enjoyable too albeit utilizing far less of the available screen space.

Compared to the plethora of app-enabled televisions that currently exist, a cheap cable plus a kick-ass MHL-enabled smartphone equals one of best app experiences I've had on any HDTV.  If your smart device supports MHL, grab a cable and get connected!

Test notes:

• 1080p30 output reported from Galaxy SIII
• Non-MHL HDTV used for testing (HDMI+USB supplying additional power)
• Mirroring of Galaxy SIII display on HDTV