AllYouCanTech

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Consumer technology continually advances, making it common for obsolete inputs and outputs to fade away like the pet rock. In today’s smart TVs and mobile gadgets, one nearly forgotten connection is Mobile High-Definition Link (MHL). This HDMI technology enabled users to connect a phone or tablet to an MHL-compatible port on televisions, monitors, and projectors. MHL allowed video and audio data to be transmitted to a display, positioning it among the forerunners of screen mirroring.

Utilizing MHL frequently necessitated an MHL adapter. The process involved connecting a USB cable to one side of the adapter (which occasionally required AC power) and linking an HDMI cable from the adapter to an MHL-certified input on your television. The MHL 3.0 standard (introduced in 2013) incorporated 4K support, device charging, and additional features into MHL’s capabilities, yet nothing could surpass the appeal of “wire-free” solutions.

Apple AirPlay, Google Chromecast, and Miracast brought forth wireless screen mirroring and content casting, a convenience that MHL merely couldn’t match, especially since no extra hardware was required to establish the connection between Device A and Device B. The 2010s also saw the emergence of streaming devices and smart TVs, meaning many applications and services you may have depended on your phone for (like Netflix, YouTube) were now integrated into your television or streaming device.

The ascent and decline of connectivity in the 2010s, or how wireless and USB-C rendered MHL obsolete

Once wireless mirroring and content casting became mainstream, the MHL standard tried to endure. In early 2015, users were introduced to superMHL, an enhancement that improved resolution and frame rate performance (offering up to 8K/120Hz), boosted charging power, and integrated USB-C compatibility — which the MHL Consortium termed “MHL Alt Mode.” However, there wasn’t enough backing for the new standard, and it didn’t take long for brands like Samsung — once heavily involved in MHL’s creation — to withdraw support entirely.

As we moved into the 2020s, MHL was still battling to hold its ground. This coincided with smartphone manufacturers, including Apple, transitioning to USB-C, which opened the door for DisplayPort Alt Mode — a wired link that provided video, audio, and power when your device was connected to a display through USB-C. Smart TV software had also advanced so rapidly that casting applications from your phone were increasingly unnecessary.

Today, MHL in all its iterations stands as a remnant of the past, and the only real chance of encountering an MHL port is on outdated TVs and other display technologies. Wireless device mirroring and USB-C connectivity dominate the landscape, and HDMI technology has also made significant advancements, particularly in gaming optimizations (such as Variable Refresh Rate, Auto Low Latency Mode). The truth is that the world no longer requires MHL extensively, but the creativity behind the adapters was enjoyable while it lasted.

iPhone 17e, which begins at a relatively low price of $599. However, it lacks some significant features that the other models in the range include. Nevertheless, not everyone can afford the latest and most advanced iPhones. Thankfully, this isn’t a huge issue since the company’s older iPhones are still very competent smartphones even after new models are introduced, as Apple provides software updates for five to seven years, and its A-series processors are among the most powerful available. Choosing an older iPhone allows you to save a considerable amount of money while still experiencing much of what a new iPhone offers, as long as you avoid purchasing a vintage iPhone that has reached the end of its life.

This is exactly why iPhones maintain a high resale value, and many users are content purchasing a pre-owned refurbished iPhone. As we approach the release of the iPhone 18 series later this year, it’s an excellent opportunity to assess which older iPhones are still worthwhile investments in 2026. An important aspect to consider when shopping for any older iPhone is to ensure that you’re receiving a significant discount compared to the newer models available. Otherwise, it might be more beneficial to invest a little extra for the latest versions.

affordable television brands available that exceed expectations significantly. Sadly, one of these brands is no longer as impressive as it used to be, at least according to Consumer Reports. Five or six years ago, Vizio was among the most prominent names in the budget television market. However, in 2024, Walmart acquired the LCD and OLED producer, leading to difficulties in locating Vizio TVs outside of the widely available big-box store. More critically, it appears that Vizio has lost the attributes that initially earned its praise: excellent picture quality at an economical price.

Consumer Reports subjected 14 Vizio TVs to extensive lab testing, and not a single model achieved a score higher than “below average.” We ventured beyond expert opinions to gather user feedback, and the official Vizio subreddit provided insightful information. Modern Vizio TVs seem to lack reliability, with many users noticing sluggish interfaces, app crashes, and various persistent glitches. Even Rtings, a reliable consumer technology review platform, stated that most Vizio TVs are plagued with issues, and the smart TV’s operating system “leaves a lot to be desired.”

A Smart TV lacking internet connectivity simply cannot provide the majority of the features it claims to have.

These issues do not render Smart TVs a poor investment. They continue to be outstanding products for the majority of users, but understanding their constraints can significantly impact your purchase decision. Therefore, here are some drawbacks of these devices to think about before integrating them into your household.