As a general policy MMA does not pre-announce nor publicly discuss projects under consideration by our members. This helps to prevent market confusion, especially since often proposals for new or redefined MIDI messages do not achieve consensus within the membership. However, for manufacturers and developers considering joining MMA, the following information provides an overview of the topics currently being discussed.

High Definition Protocol

The concept of a High-Definition protocol comparable to MIDI has been discussed and a proposal is being tested. This new protocol provides greater resolution in data values, increases the number of Channels, and allows for the creation of entirely new kinds of messages that will encourage future innovation. Some more information can  be found here. (Working Group: HDWG)

HTML5 Web MIDI API

The W3C has convened a working group to specify and provide audio and MIDI APIs for web browsers using HTML5. For more information see: www.w3.org/2011/audio/ and www.html5audio.org.

MIDI over Ethernet AVBTP

The IEEE has developed a set of technologies for low-latency audio/visual data delivery over Ethernet, and the MMA has reserved a packet type for MIDI 1.0 and HD protocols. For a brief explanation, click here.

Future MIDI Opportunities

MMA members are currently considering additional applications, platforms and technologies where enabling MIDI file playback and/or messaging would provide market opportunities for manufacturers and consumers, including:

• Bluetooth MIDI (BTSIG)
• MIDI for eBooks (IEC-TC100)
• MIDI for Home Control
• iOS Interapplication MIDI (OMAC)

If your company is interested in helping with any of these projects, please join the MMA. 

High-Definition Protocol (HDWG)

The HDWG is responsible for setting the requirements and direction for a protocol that will co-exist with MIDI, but provides more data resolution, a larger address space (e.g. more Channels and Controllers) and additional functionality compared to MIDI. Intended transports include at least USB and Ethernet, and the protocol supports device inquiry and enumeration across tranports. 

The Interactive Audio Special Interest Group (IASIG) brings together audio engineers, composers, programmers and product designers from the computing, entertainment and music industries to improve the quality of platforms and tools for interactive multimedia applications. Membership in the MMA is not required to participate in the IASIG.

The IASIG technology specifications include DLS1, I3DL1, and I3DL2, while IASIG Guidelines have helped define best practices for Audio on the Web, Audio in Mobile Devices, and Game Audio Education. The IASIG is currently working on "Interactive XMF (iXMF)", a specification that allows audio assets and playback instructions to be exchanged between playback engines. More information on these and other IASIG projects can be found at www.iasig.org.