The full-size type A HDMI cable is used to transfer video and sound from a set-top box to a TV: the cable's bandwidth allows you to watch content in high quality, including 4K.
The HDMI 1.4 cables allow you to place your set-top box in the most convenient place for you, without limiting you to installing it on the TV or close to it.
If your cable is broken or lost, you can buy an HDMI cable for a 4K TV box separately and continue to enjoy watching your favorite content.