Intel wireless display linux

Types of Intel wireless display

The Intel wireless display technology is awesome because it lets people show videos, games, and pictures from one device onto another screen without needing wires. The thing is, some places have Wi-Fi networks where this kind of signaling isn't allowed. So, Intel made a special version called Intel WiDi Extended that works even in those Wi-Fi-restricted spaces. It uses a different, approved wireless connection that can be found anywhere. Intel later switched things up by replacing WiDi with the updated system called Miracast. Miracast also works well even when Wi-Fi isn't available. Intel's idea to use the approved wireless link allows people to use their devices and display stuff, even in places with restricted Wi-Fi access. Intel WiDi Extended and Miracast are helpful alternatives when regular Wi-Fi connections aren't allowed or easy to get, as long as one has a display adapter compatible with the link technology.

• Intel WiDi: The original technology from Intel Corporation that allowed users to wirelessly display content from a computer to a TV or monitor.
• WiDi Extended: A version of the Wireless Display technology designed to function in environments where traditional Wi-Fi networks are restricted or not permitted, like in some corporate or educational settings. It uses an alternate wireless connection that doesn't rely on standard Wi-Fi, allowing presentations or streamed content to be displayed even in areas where Wi-Fi is unavailable. This makes it useful for situations where internet access through a local network isn't allowed but wireless screen mirroring is still needed.
• Miracast: Miracast is a technology that allows users to wirelessly mirror or project the screen of one device onto another, similar to Intel's Wireless Display (WiDi). It works over a direct Wi-Fi connection between devices, eliminating the need for a separate network or internet access. Miracast is widely supported across various platforms, including Android, Windows, and some smart TVs and devices.

Function and Features

Intel Wireless Display, also known as WiDi, allows users to wirelessly stream content from their compatible devices to a TV or projector. Linux has open-source alternatives to Intel Wireless Displays, but their availability depends on Intel's WiDi/Linux support.

In 2020, Intel announced it would discontinue all Intel Wireless Display software products and applications. They provided resources for developers to switch their projects to the open-source project, targeting the Intel WiDi infrastructure as a replacement.

• Miracast: The technology on which Intel WiDi is based, Miracast, is a wireless display standard that allows screen mirroring over Wi-Fi Direct.
• AirPlay: AirPlay is another wireless display technology. Like Miracast, it allows iOS and macOS devices to stream content to compatible devices.
• Open-source projects: Open-source options could be an alternative to Intel Wireless Display Linux that WiDi relies on. These include DisplayLink and DigiFish, which provide guidelines for developers who want to contribute to wireless display projects.
• Wireless connection: WiDi uses a wireless network between the computer and display device, using a Wi-Fi-certified system-on-chip adapter receiver device.
• Screen sharing: The primary function of WiDi is to share one's screen on another display, so content such as videos, presentations, pictures, or applications can be viewed on a more prominent display via wireless connection.
• Supported devices: Intel WiDi is backed and supported by Intel processors and graphics, but it also requires compatible receiving devices (such as TVs, projectors, or receivers) and software drivers.
• Resolution: Intel Wireless Display supports up to high definition (HD) resolution of 720p or 1080p, and also includes audio, so content streamed over WiDi can be accompanied by sound for a complete viewing experience.
• user input: Intel WiDi also allows the user to select and manage content to be streamed from their device to the target display, as well as to project that content. This means the user can control what is being displayed on the external screen, not just passive view what is on their device.
• Power consumption: Compatibility, user input, security, and stability are also factors that need to be weighed, along with power consumption, of Wireless Display technology.
• Latency: When describing input on one device is reflected on another in real-time, latency refers to the delay between the moment an action is taken on the source device and the moment it shows on the receiving display.
• Compatibility: This refers to the ability of the source device (like a laptop or tablet) and target display (like a TV or projector) to work together seamlessly without issues. If two devices aren't compatible with one another, the wireless display won't function.
• Security: Another wireless display option should implement measures to ensure the data being transmitted wirelessly is kept safe and protected from eavesdropping or unauthorized access, especially because sensitive information may be contained within what's being displayed on the target screen.
• Stability: Stability is essential for any wireless display technology because it ensures a reliable connection between the source device and target display, minimizing issues like lag, drop signals, or buffering.

Scenarios

Intel wireless display can be used in various scenarios to enable convenient and cable-free content streaming. Some of these usage scenarios are as follows;

HoMe Scenario: One might use the wireless display to mirror their laptop screen and enjoy their favorite movies and TV shows on a bigger screen. Businesses can also find this interesting, as they can wirelessly connect their laptops to a larger display and deliver engaging and impressive presentations to various audiences without the hassle of dealing with cables.

Gaming Scenario: There's a possibility of using Intel cast screen to elate gaming experiences. For instance, gamers can connect their PC wirelessly to a big TV and stream their games from that convenient screen. Additionally, they can use technologies like Intel Easy Steam Technology to game with friends on different displays simultaneously.

Work scenario: Wireless Intel display can be used to enhance productivity and multitasking. Users can effortlessly and wirelessly project their desktop or laptop screen to another monitor and expand their workspace. This enables them to efficiently manage and optimize tasks like research, coding, and debugging.

How to Choose Intel Wireless Display Linux

When selecting an Intel Wireless Display HDMI adapter for Linux, there are some important things to keep in mind to ensure compatibility and a positive experience:

• Compatibility: Make sure the adapter you pick works with your particular Linux distribution and version. Some adapters might only have Linux support to a limited extent or not at all, so do some research and pick one that's been tried and true with your chosen Linux setup.
• Linux Support: Look for Intel adapters with strong Linux community support or dedicated Linux-focused brands. These adapter types tend to have less issues and work more smoothly on Linux systems because they've been used and tested by Linux users.
• Open Source Drivers: Favor adapters that have open-source drivers readily available. This can make it easier to set up the wireless display and also provide greater compatibility and flexibility, which are important for Linux users.
• Documentation: Make sure the adapter has clear documentation on how to install and set it up on Linux systems. Good documentation can help troubleshoot any potential issues.

Intel wireless display Linux Q&A

Q1 What is a broadcom wireless display?

A1 A Broadcom wireless display is a technology that, when combined with a digital TV adapter, enables the TV to receive a display signal from a wireless source, such as a laptop, tablet, or smartphone via HDMI.

Q2 Can Linux cast to a wireless display?

A2 Yes, the Linux operating system can cast to a wireless display.

Q3 What is Intel WiDi?

A3 Intel's Wireless Display (WiDi) technology lets users stream content from devices like laptops or tablets to televisions or monitors wirelessly. WiDi was developed by Intel and is based on similar technologies like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Direct. It allows users to mirror their screens or send video and audio content wirelessly from a compatible device to a bigger display.

Q4 Does Linux have a screen mirroring?

A4 Yes, there are various applications and tools available on the Linux platform that can help screen mirroring.