Galaxy S II's MHL port pairs USB and HDMI connections
updated 07:55 pm EST, Wed February 23, 2011
System automatically switches between standards
Samsung's Galaxy S II handset reportedly represents one of the first devices to take advantage of a Mobile High-Definition Link port. Although a dedicated HDMI output was noticeably absent from the handset housing, the MHL port combines USB and HDMI standards for data transfer, charging, and connection to audio/video equipment.
The combined functionality is designed to charge the device when it is attached to MHL-equipped televisions, though a special in-line charging adapter will be required for existing HDMI equipment. Users will also be able to control the handset's media interface from their TV remote when the updated sets arrive on the market.
Additional devices with MHL ports are expected to arrive on the market this year, as the standard was developed by a consortium that includes Nokia, Toshiba and Sony. [via SanFirmware and Engadget]
