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Check HDCP support

To accurately determine the HDCP version, disable additional monitors, TV, Apple AirPlay, etc.
  • Google Widevine
    Key system: com.widevine.alpha
  • Microsoft PlayReady
    Key system: com.microsoft.playready.recommendation
  • Apple Fairplay
    Key system: com.apple.fps

What is HDCP?

HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection) is a digital copy protection technology designed to prevent unauthorized recording or interception of high-value audio/video content (like movies, TV shows, or games) as it travels between devices over digital interfaces like HDMI, DisplayPort, or DVI.

Key things about HDCP

  1. Anti-Piracy Purpose: Its core job is to stop protected content from being copied while it’s being transmitted from a source device (Blu-ray player, streaming box, game console, PC) to a sink device (TV, monitor, projector, AV receiver).
  2. Encryption: HDCP encrypts the digital audio/video signal at the source.
  3. Authentication (“Handshake”): Before playing protected content, the source and sink must perform an authentication process:
    • The source requests the sink’s unique HDCP key.
    • The sink sends its key.
    • The source verifies the key is valid and hasn’t been revoked (isn’t on a “blacklist”).
    • If valid, they agree on a session key and encrypted transmission begins.
    • If authentication fails (incompatible versions, fake/revoked key, faulty cable), protected content will not display (usually resulting in a black screen or error message).
  4. Versions Matter: HDCP has evolved through versions (1.x, 2.x, 2.3). Newer versions (like HDCP 2.2, 2.3) offer stronger encryption and are required for modern content (e.g., 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray, some 4K streaming). All devices in the chain (source, cable, sink) must support the required HDCP version.
  5. Where It’s Used: Found on virtually all modern devices handling licensed video:
    • Sources: Blu-ray players, streaming devices (Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV), game consoles (PlayStation, Xbox), PCs/laptops (HDMI/DP outputs).
    • Sinks: TVs, monitors, projectors, AV receivers, soundbars.
    • Cables: HDMI and DisplayPort cables must be capable of supporting the required HDCP version.
  6. Common Issues:
    • Black Screen: The most frequent problem, caused by a failed handshake (incompatible versions, bad cable, faulty port).
    • Resolution Downgrade: If devices can’t negotiate the required HDCP version, the source might send a lower-resolution signal instead.