The EVO HTC is the first 4G phone to be released to the public and sales seem to be brisk in the US on this first day of its availability. It runs on the Sprint cellular network and pending release dates to the UK are rumours only, not yet confirmed. As the current UK 4G network is virtually non-existent, there doesn't seem to be any hurry.

One of the technological enhancements of this new phone that should be appearing on the new generation of 4G cell phones – which are capable of speeds up to 10 times faster than current 3G tech – is the appearance of a Micro-HDMI (Type D) jack. While it is apparently intended as a provision to accommodate a separate docking bay, it can be connected to a suitable HDMI cable for audio/visual applications.

Which leads to the question: How do I know which type of HDMI cable to get? The answer is fairly simple, however, since the two HDMI connectors are nearly identical in appearance, there is a considerable difference in the physical size of the common Type A (standard HDMI) and the smaller versions. The Type D is smaller than the Mini-HDMI Type C connexion. For most applications, the Type A and Type D plugs are the ones required for phones, games and HDTV.

As the cables convey digital signals – essentially ones and zeroes – instead of analogue waves. Therefore, the monstrous cables usually associated with high-end audio with gold plated connectors and heavy shielding designed to reduce or prevent Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) or Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) are superfluous. 

When you buy Micro-HDMI cables, get one that meets or exceeds the HDMI V1.4 specification, which basically adds Ethernet capability. This will ensure the cable will not need to be replaced any time in the near future and will provide anticipated, but as yet unimplemented Ethernet connectivity. At this writing, Type A to Type D cables are currently difficult to find and may need to be fabricated by companies such as Molex. Speciality electronic shops may have stock on-hand. As the need manifests, the industry will provide an easy and relatively low cost solutions.