Streaming 4K media from a smartphone to an ultra high-definition TV is now closer to reality.

New devices with a USB Type-C connector will support the new MHL (mobile high-definition link) 3 specification, which includes streaming 4K video.

By the end of next year, manufacturers will begin replacing current USB 3.0 ports with the next-gen USB 3.1, which doubles the transfer rate from 4.8 Gbps to 9.6 Gbps and is backward compatible with existing versions of the MHL specification.

"This benefits consumers and systems designers because a single connector reduces costs and increases functionality," MHL Consortium President Rob Tobias said in a statement.

Future mobile devices that come with a USB Type-C port and support the MHL Alt Mode will be able to connect to MHL-friendly TVs, monitors, Blu-ray players, projectors, set-top boxes, and even automotive products.

Support for the mobile high-definition link standard is already available in 650 million devices, including Samsung and Sony smartphones and tablets, according to Computerworld. It should reach most HDTVs by next year.

"The USB Type-C cable and connector is designed to be a long-lasting, robust solution that is ideal for all platforms and devices," said Jeff Ravencraft, president and CEO of the USB-Implementers Forum (USB-IF).

Working in conjunction with the MHL Consortium, the forum aims to establish "complementary certification and compliance programs to properly support USB Type-C hosts and devices that incorporate MHL Alt Mode," Ravencraft continued.

The groups are also working to develop joint port identification guidelines.

"We're coordinating with MHL, LLC to ensure consumers can recognize when MHL Alt Mode is support on USB Type-C devices," Ravencraft said.