Belkin bets on cable-free displays with ConnectAir

Belkin has unveiled a wireless HDMI adapter that removes the need for Wi-Fi networks, aiming to simplify screen sharing in offices, classrooms and homes where reliability and security often trump convenience. Introduced at CES 2026, the ConnectAir Wireless HDMI Adapter promises stable, low-latency transmission over distances of up to 130 feet, positioning it as a practical alternative to software-based casting systems that depend on congested local networks.

The ConnectAir system delivers full-HD video at 1080p and 60 frames per second, using a dedicated point-to-point wireless link rather than a router or cloud service. Belkin says this approach reduces interference, limits dropouts and avoids the security concerns associated with sharing content over shared Wi-Fi infrastructure. The company is pricing the adapter at $149.99, with commercial availability planned for the first quarter of 2026.

At the core of the product is a simple plug-and-play design. A compact USB-C transmitter connects to a laptop, tablet or smartphone, while a separate HDMI receiver plugs into a display, projector or television. Once powered, the devices automatically pair, eliminating the need for apps, drivers or network credentials. Belkin has positioned the ConnectAir as device-agnostic, supporting Windows PCs, macOS laptops, ChromeOS devices and USB-C-equipped smartphones, provided they support video output.

The 130-foot operating range is notable in a market where many wireless display solutions struggle beyond conference-room distances. Belkin attributes the extended range to a dedicated wireless protocol optimised for video rather than general data traffic. While the company has not disclosed the exact radio technology in detail, it has emphasised that the system is designed to operate independently of existing wireless networks, reducing conflicts in crowded radio environments such as offices, campuses and exhibition halls.

Another feature aimed at collaborative environments is support for multiple transmitters. Several users can connect their own USB-C transmitters to a single HDMI receiver, allowing quick switching between presenters without unplugging cables or reconfiguring software. Belkin says this capability is intended to streamline meetings, classrooms and training sessions, where delays caused by incompatible software or unstable connections can disrupt workflows.

The launch comes as demand grows for simpler presentation tools that work consistently across mixed hardware environments. Many organisations continue to rely on HDMI cables because wireless alternatives often require network access, administrator permissions or specific operating system versions. By removing Wi-Fi from the equation, Belkin is targeting users who want the flexibility of wireless displays without the administrative overhead or security trade-offs.

Analysts tracking the display-connectivity market note that hardware-based wireless HDMI solutions have historically faced challenges around cost, latency and ease of use. Belkin appears to be addressing these pain points by focusing on a mid-range price, straightforward setup and performance that matches standard wired connections for most professional uses. The 1080p resolution may not satisfy users seeking 4K output, but Belkin is positioning the ConnectAir primarily for presentations, collaboration and general productivity rather than high-end media playback.

Security is another area Belkin has highlighted. Because the ConnectAir establishes a direct link between transmitter and receiver, there is no exposure to shared networks or external servers. This design can appeal to organisations handling sensitive information, where screen sharing over open or semi-public Wi-Fi is discouraged. The absence of software installation also reduces the attack surface compared with app-based solutions.

Belkin’s move reflects a broader trend among accessory makers to offer hardware-centric solutions that prioritise reliability over feature complexity. With hybrid work models still common and meeting spaces increasingly shared by employees and visitors, products that work instantly across devices have gained renewed attention. The company’s long history in cables and connectivity gives it credibility in a segment where trust in basic functionality matters.

Competition in the wireless display space remains intense, with established players offering both software and hardware approaches. Belkin is differentiating ConnectAir through its Wi-Fi-free operation and extended range, betting that these attributes will resonate with users frustrated by inconsistent casting experiences. Early demonstrations at CES showed quick pairing and stable playback, though real-world performance in interference-heavy environments will be closely watched once the product ships.