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MHL Cable Discussion Thread

I wanted to make this a discussion thread for MHL cables. Currently, I have a Rocketfish MHL Cable and I love it. It doesn't have to be plugged into the wall via micro usb for it to work, unlike my ONN brand cable.
Other things I would like everyone to discuss, is quality and content. I love the quality of picture that mine displays, pretty sure it's 1080p, but how about other brands?
Now for content. Has anyone been successful in getting a MHL Cable to work with protected material? For example, when I hook mine up and try to watch NFL Mobile, it says "HDMI Is Not Supported". Is there a Rom that will work? Maybe an App to download? Xposed Framework module?
Also, speaking of nfl games, has anyone been successful in getting a Super Nintendo emulator working with hdmi and two controllers for playing multiplayer games?
Basically, let's discuss anything and everything MHL for HTC One M8!!!

I never put much thought into MHL, but came to this topic hoping to learn something. I found your cable on Amazon, and a lot of people are saying it doesn't work. Others are saying it does, but with an adapter. Together, the two add up to the cost of a Chromecast (which I have no experience with), so, what does an MHL cable do that Chromecast doesn't, aside from charging your phone, of course.

Dark Reality said:
I never put much thought into MHL, but came to this topic hoping to learn something.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm hoping to learn something too. I'm going to buy a chrome cast tonight. I did some searching on the web and found out that I can use my HTC One M8 to screen mirror or mirrorcast to my TV. Someone out their has created an App that enables mirroring with any rooted device. Link is here https://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=23578570567717826
The guys over at Wal-Mart were nice enough to let my play and connect a chrome cast up to my phone. After downloading the file, I was able to watch NFL Mobile Network and Stream Twitch to a TV without any problems. There was a slight lag from what the phone showed, but nothing terrible as the sound and video synced up perfectly on the tv I was testing it out on.
I'm glad I got those two apps to stream to a TV. Not sure if an MHL Cable is going to offer anything more than a chrome cast. I'll see if I can tell a difference in quality or lag input. Thanks for bringing up the chrome cast. I know the HTC One M8 mirror option isn't supported yet, but with the phone being rooted and the extra app enabled, I can now stream anything and everything from my phone to my TV.

I haven't had any experience at all with MHL but do have a few thoughts about it vs Chromecast. I come from a long list of Motorola phones which all came with a dedicated HDMI port. If MHL is the same thing as HDMI, Chromecast is the way to go. At least for me. Since getting the ability to mirror on Chromecast, I really can't think of any advantage of using HDMI. There's a couple of really good advantages for using Chromecast though. Assuming MHL works the same way HDMI does, using it doesn't allow you to do anything with your device while mirroring on the TV. If you do something on the phone, the TV displays it. Also, the screen on your device has to remain on all the time. If you happen to use/stream Netflix or Youtube or some such thing, the screen never shuts off. However, if you use Chromecast for those types of things (or other apps that support it) you can still use the phone to play a game, browse the web or whatever it is you want to do. It has no effect on the movie you're playing. A big plus is you can also turn the screen off while streaming a movie or whatever. If you turn the screen off while streaming a 2 hour movie while using Chromecast, the battery drain is next to nothing compared to HDMI (again, assuming MHL is the same). If you mirror with Chromecast, then things are pretty much the same. The ability to turn the screen off or browse the web, etc.while streaming media is a huge advantage for Chromecast. At least, the way I use my phone, it is for me.
I apologize if my post is somewhat off topic but I figured since Chromecast came into the conversation and I do have experience with HDMI, I'd put my two cents worth in. Just my thoughts on the subject.

FWIW, this cable works on my phone.
http://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00F8FGSOE/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Best MHL for HTCOne M8
Hello , I just purchased an MHL cable for my phone and it only works intermittently. You mentioned the rocketfish. Is it reliable and doesn't cut out?
QUOTE=BygSii;55211766]I wanted to make this a discussion thread for MHL cables. Currently, I have a Rocketfish MHL Cable and I love it. It doesn't have to be plugged into the wall via micro usb for it to work, unlike my ONN brand cable.
Other things I would like everyone to discuss, is quality and content. I love the quality of picture that mine displays, pretty sure it's 1080p, but how about other brands?
Now for content. Has anyone been successful in getting a MHL Cable to work with protected material? For example, when I hook mine up and try to watch NFL Mobile, it says "HDMI Is Not Supported". Is there a Rom that will work? Maybe an App to download? Xposed Framework module?
Also, speaking of nfl games, has anyone been successful in getting a Super Nintendo emulator working with hdmi and two controllers for playing multiplayer games?
Basically, let's discuss anything and everything MHL for HTC One M8!!![/QUOTE]

I use one with my video head unit in my vehicle. I can mirror anything on my phone to it. I also have a MirrorLink device. All just different ways to skin a cat.

USB-C to HDMI adapter

Hi,
Can someone recommend USB-C to HDMI adapter for p30 pro or docking station ?
Or it's not possible to connect by this way phone to external display

yhans said:
Hi,
Can someone recommend USB-C to HDMI adapter for p30 pro or docking station ?
Or it's not possible to connect by this way phone to external display
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm also looking for a Type C to HDMI cable, and I was wondering if the P30 Pro outputs at 60hz? (at 1080p or 4k?) The Kirin 980 looks good for PSP/Gamecube emulation and I'd like the emulators to run at full speed on my TV.
Will something like this be ok?
https://www.amazon.co.uk/uni-Thunderbolt-Compatible-Pixelbook-More-Space/dp/B075V5JK36
Picking up my P30 pro tomorrow and I will glad to see the back of this Sony, no MHL out and the headphone jack failed within a year.

I've got 2 'standard' amazon USB-C to HDMI adaptors, they all work great. If you're using it for occasional displaying then don't worry, but if you are hoping to use it longer term then get one that does PD passthrough

NJ72 said:
I've got 2 'standard' amazon USB-C to HDMI adaptors, they all work great. If you're using it for occasional displaying then don't worry, but if you are hoping to use it longer term then get one that does PD passthrough
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Click to collapse
In the end I bought this Choetech USB C to HDMI cable. Used it to watch the football on my TV using the BT sport app and it worked perfectly. It is a massive step up from Mira/Chrome casting and has high wattage PD so that the phone charges quickly as well.
I'm going to add a few roms and emulators (PPSSPP, Damon PS2 & Dolphin) to my phone at some point and will see if I get 60fps on the TV and whether it outputs in 4k, but for £17 (I got an open box one for £13) it's a bargain.

I use mine for emulator gaming (admittedly on a 1080p screen) and it works great

bombdog said:
In the end I bought this Choetech USB C to HDMI cable. Used it to watch the football on my TV using the BT sport app and it worked perfectly. It is a massive step up from Mira/Chrome casting and has high wattage PD so that the phone charges quickly as well.
I'm going to add a few roms and emulators (PPSSPP, Damon PS2 & Dolphin) to my phone at some point and will see if I get 60fps on the TV and whether it outputs in 4k, but for £17 (I got an open box one for £13) it's a bargain.
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Click to collapse
Hi.
Can you test that cable with Netflix?
Best regards.

1920x1080 I believe is what it does. At least that's what the resolution of the screenshots are when you're in desktop mode. Desktop mode doesn't work with all apps. I tested it with a 4K monitor and 4K HDMI cable and 4K adapter, but it's not outputting 4K.

pmsfcruz said:
Hi.
Can you test that cable with Netflix?
Best regards.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi I downloaded Netflix and started a trial with the UltraHD options.
The phone outputs Netflix in Full HD whilst in phone mode, but not 4k. It may well be outputting HDR via HDMI, but my TV only responds to HDR content from the USB port (thanks Sony) so I can't confirm this.
When in desktop mode, the audio comes through but the screen is black (apart from the navigation options and content warnings). This is a shame as when I use the BT Sport app it outputs video at the highest possible resolution with out issue. So Netflix via desktop mode is not possible, perhaps this could be escalated with Huawei and patched via software, I wouldn't know.
I also tested the UltraHD options via the Android TV app on my Sony TV and it worked flawlessly, although I will be uninstalling Netflix after my month because KODI.
Hope this helps.
---------- Post added at 12:59 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:43 PM ----------
Actually this modded version of the Netflix APK could be interesting, when I get home from work I might try this.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/poco-f1/how-to/watch-netflix-hd-ultra-hd-poco-f1-t3840727

bombdog said:
Hi I downloaded Netflix and started a trial with the UltraHD options.
The phone outputs Netflix in Full HD whilst in phone mode, but not 4k. It may well be outputting HDR via HDMI, but my TV only responds to HDR content from the USB port (thanks Sony) so I can't confirm this.
When in desktop mode, the audio comes through but the screen is black (apart from the navigation options and content warnings). This is a shame as when I use the BT Sport app it outputs video at the highest possible resolution with out issue. So Netflix via desktop mode is not possible, perhaps this could be escalated with Huawei and patched via software, I wouldn't know.
I also tested the UltraHD options via the Android TV app on my Sony TV and it worked flawlessly, although I will be uninstalling Netflix after my month because KODI.
Hope this helps.
---------- Post added at 12:59 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:43 PM ----------
Actually this modded version of the Netflix APK could be interesting, when I get home from work I might try this.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/poco-f1/how-to/watch-netflix-hd-ultra-hd-poco-f1-t3840727
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks a lot for your test.
Even in desktop mode and only full hd netflix doesn't work? I don't use 4k because for now I don't have TV or monitor 4k.
Best regards.

Charging Speed with adapter
bombdog said:
In the end I bought this CHOETECH cable. Used it to watch the football on my TV using the BT sport app and it worked perfectly. It is a massive step up from Mira/Chrome casting and has high wattage PD so that the phone charges quickly as well.
I'm going to add a few roms and emulators (PPSSPP, Damon PS2 & Dolphin) to my phone at some point and will see if I get 60fps on the TV and whether it outputs in 4k, but for £17 (I got an open box one for £13) it's a bargain.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hi, do u mind sharing your charging speed using Ampere apps on playstore? im using BASEUS with same 60W power delivery, but the charging speed is so low. your help will be grateful.tqsm!!

I use this
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07M61X8N3
Mainly for watching my own content on TVs in hotels. So far I have not had any issues.

I went for this one from Amazon
USB C Hub, WIMUUE 7 in 1 Aluminum Adapter with 100W Power Delivery, 4K HDMI, 2 USB 3.0 Ports, MicroSD, SD Card Reader USBC Dongle for MacBook Pro/Air Thunderbolt 3 Multiport Dock USB Type C Laptop: Amazon.co.uk: Computers & Accessories
Free delivery and returns on eligible orders. Buy USB C Hub, WIMUUE 7 in 1 Aluminum Adapter with 100W Power Delivery, 4K HDMI, 2 USB 3.0 Ports, MicroSD, SD Card Reader USBC Dongle for MacBook Pro/Air Thunderbolt 3 Multiport Dock USB Type C Laptop at Amazon UK.
www.amazon.co.uk
for about £20. Plugged it in and it worked straight off playing a film on a USB stuck into the hub using MXPlayer (on the phone) onto my TV via HDMI . Thought it was handier as my laptop doesn't have a microSD card reader so could use it on there too.... and get stuff onto or off my phone onto USB/microSD/SD. Happy chap! Ready for hotel visits now.

USB C to Hdmi ???

Does anyone one know if the new Pixel 3a supports this or screen mirroring??? Its been my biggest set back from getting these phone and saw that its said USB 3.1 which supports it, so Im hopefull.

No hard confirmation yet. I'm sure SomeGadgetGuy will give a proper update at some point just not sure when we can expect it
No, the Pixel 3a is USB 2.0, not 3.1 (you can check Google's page for the device).
One of the previous threads did point out that the last Google sponsored phone which supported HDMI output was indeed the Nexus 5. At the time around the Nexus 5X/6P, it could've been argued that it was due to Cast capability (and forcing you to get that ChromeCast or AndroidTV). For the original Pixel - there hasn't been much movement on the Android side but lots of helpful additions to support ChromeOS.
I'm not so sure if the lack of display output over USB C will be taken as lightly for the Pixel 2/3 gen devices with all desktop mode info coming out.
For the Pixel 3a/ 3a XL, the price does play a factor and it won't be a big shock if the feature has been omitted. It's not something to be happy about but it's something which can be easy to understand.

1jsin4e said:
Does anyone one know if the new Pixel 3a supports this or screen mirroring??? Its been my biggest set back from getting these phone and saw that its said USB 3.1 which supports it, so Im hopefull.
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Click to collapse
del mobile connect, its not brilliant for mirroring but shows it works

Might be a cable thing but I just gave it a go and failed.

Everyone was saying that it wasn't possible, but I finally figured out how to do it on my Pixel 3a XL! I uploaded a YouTube video so that people could see it actually is possible. Just search YouTube for the video title, "Pixel 3 to HDMI Video Output (using a WIRED adapter)" Basically you need to use a DisplayLink certified USB video adapter. I recommend that you get a newer adapter than the one I used because the frame rate dropped pretty bad at full screen and it put out really choppy/laggy video. I also tested it out on a USB-C powered DisplayLink certified monitor with the newer DisplayLink graphics chipset and the video was real smooth at full screen playback and while gaming.
Oh and you will also have to install the "DisplayLink Presenter" app/driver on your Pixel 2/3/4 phone from the Google Play Store.
Hope this helps!

HDMI Support

Hello!
Has anyone been able to get HDMI support for the Pixel 3a? Seems like the perfect phone for my dad, but need to either have smart view for connecting to my TV or HDMI support. Thanks!

JJOSH31 said:
Hello!
Has anyone been able to get HDMI support for the Pixel 3a? Seems like the perfect phone for my dad, but need to either have smart view for connecting to my TV or HDMI support. Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried it with the usb-c to HDMI adaptor I have that works with my S8. Sadly it does not work the Pixel 3a. I don't think it's designed to ever have video out through the usb-c
It will cast to a tv or Chrome cast but I cannot get it to even recognize a Fire Stick. I'm sure it's because of it being made by Amazon

Gregbmil1 said:
Sadly it does not work the Pixel 3a. I don't think it's designed to ever have video out through the usb-c
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Click to collapse
You are correct. Google stopped this ability (usb X to hdmi) on their devices years ago. Are you attempting to connect Fire directly to the 3a? You would have the same problem. While Chromecast is made to operate from your device, Fire is not. Anything Fire supplies is available through the Amazon app so no need to connect Fire to device. 3a does connect to roku. You can also use the Fire remote app or roku remote app on your device. Both are really effective.
FWIW, there is a thread on this already.

JJOSH31 said:
Hello!
Has anyone been able to get HDMI support for the Pixel 3a? Seems like the perfect phone for my dad, but need to either have smart view for connecting to my TV or HDMI support. Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Everyone was saying that it wasn't possible, but I finally figured out how to do it on my Pixel 3a XL! I uploaded a YouTube video so that people could see it actually is possible. Just search YouTube for the video title, "Pixel 3 to HDMI Video Output (using a WIRED adapter)" Basically you need to use a DisplayLink certified USB video adapter. I recommend that you get a newer adapter than the one I used because the frame rate dropped pretty bad at full screen and it put out really choppy/laggy video. I also tested it out on a USB-C powered DisplayLink certified monitor with the newer DisplayLink graphics chipset and the video was real smooth at full screen playback and while gaming.
Oh and you will also have to install the "DisplayLink Presenter" app/driver on your Pixel 2/3/4 phone from the Google Play Store.
Hope this helps!

Xperia 5 Type-C - HDMI out working

I just got the phone today and went straight to check if it supports HDMI out aka MHL and to my surprise it works! I tried both, direct cable and through an adapter.

Was thinking these days to get one. Thanks for the Hint!

Yes , i use it too. But have not figured out how to watch full screen videos. The TV pans the 21:9 phone ratio and it is really frustrating. I am watching 16:9 video on a 16:9 TV, the phone ratio shouldn't mess up with this. At least this didn't happen to every Xperia i have had from 2010 till today. Now it seems like it only transfers what's on the phone screen, not the video itself!
Also you cannot use hdmi CEC to control video with the TV remote, like it hapened with Xperia S, Xperia Z5 etc.
Also have not figured out how to whatch hdr videos in my hdr tv. The TV does not recognose them as HDR ones, i have switch hdr on the TV manually.
Sony has not only dropped on developing new software but it didn't manage to keep the existing one either.

tori_mc said:
Yes , i use it too. But have not figured out how to watch full screen videos. The TV pans the 21:9 phone ratio and it is really frustrating. I am watching 16:9 video on a 16:9 TV, the phone ratio shouldn't mess up with this. At least this didn't happen to every Xperia i have had from 2010 till today. Now it seems like it only transfers what's on the phone screen, not the video itself!
Also you cannot use hdmi CEC to control video with the TV remote, like it hapened with Xperia S, Xperia Z5 etc.
Also have not figured out how to whatch hdr videos in my hdr tv. The TV does not recognose them as HDR ones, i have switch hdr on the TV manually.
Sony has not only dropped on developing new software but it didn't manage to keep the existing one either.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sounds bad, but maybe do they just don't know. I would wonder if they can't do this with an software update since we have one of the best USB C Ports on the Mobile Market (Other OEMs still use cheap USB 2.0 Ports). Would You consider posting that in the Xperia Forums to give SONY the Chance to reply to that? Otherwise, i could... I was about to buy a USB C Hub with PD Standard for 60 Bucks but not sure if it will work.
Another Question before You start to reply. Which kind of Adapter are You using? Possible that it has limitations like the most only have 4K @ 30HZ and without HDR (4K 60HZ HDR needs high Bandwidth). I only found some DisplayPort Adapters that support this.

Miustone said:
Sounds bad, but maybe do they just don't know. I would wonder if they can't do this with an software update since we have one of the best USB C Ports on the Mobile Market (Other OEMs still use cheap USB 2.0 Ports). Would You consider posting that in the Xperia Forums to give SONY the Chance to reply to that? Otherwise, i could... I was about to buy a USB C Hub with PD Standard for 60 Bucks but not sure if it will work.
Another Question before You start to reply. Which kind of Adapter are You using? Possible that it has limitations like the most only have 4K @ 30HZ and without HDR (4K 60HZ HDR needs high Bandwidth). I only found some DisplayPort Adapters that support this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think i have already posted there but maybe i'm wrong, you are free to copy/paste my post anyway.
This is the adapter i am using:
https://www.amazon.it/gp/product/B07SJ69JSF/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
HDMI 2.0, 4K 60 HZ HDR. The Adpter is ok because if you play a HDR video from youtube on the phone you'll get and hdr video on TV through the adapter. It just does not work the same if you try with an HDR 4K video shooted with the phone itself. And, like i said the worst thing is that you do not even get it fullscreen and cannot use HDMI CEC or Bravia sync to control videos. No software support at all, just no sense.