Because of space required to record high-definition broadcasts and movies presented in H-D format, the need for higher capacity DVD discs becomes more and more imperative. However, because there are two formats vying for industry acceptance, deciding which one becomes standard has been a heated occurrence.
The two formats, the Toshiba-backed HD-DVD and the Sony-backed Blu-Ray recording, offer much more storage than normal DVD discs. Because each side has so much invested in the format they are supporting, reaching an amicable agreement to appease both sides seems far-fetched.
However, this has not stopped Sony from issuing a peace offering of sorts. According to Reuters, Sony said it was open to discussions to create a single standard capable of storing the massive files associated with high-def recording. The Reuters article goes on to say:
“From the point of view to provide the best service to the consumer one format is better than two. We’re open to discussions,” Yukinori Kawauchi, general manager in charge of the next DVD format at Sony’s Video Group, said in an interview.
But he added that specific proposals had yet to be tabled.
“There’s no visible progress to do that (create a single standard),” Kawauchi told Reuters at an event organized by Sony.
With players supporting both formats expected by the end of the year, it doesn’t look like this issue will cleared up anytime soon. Adding to this thought is the fact that many in the industry have already chosen sides.
Apple, Dell, HP, the adult movie industry, major players in the lucrative video game industry, and of course Sony are backing Blu-Ray. The HD-DVD camp consists of Paramount, Warner Brothers, and Universal, as well as tech companies like Toshiba, Sanyo, and NEC.
One idea being bandied about by DVD-Recordable.org is having a single DVD player that supports both formats, making this suggestion the most accommodating to both sides. Although, if both formats do wind up becoming “standard,” it could certainly make things difficult for the movie industry as they decide which format to present their movies in.
Chris Richardson is a search engine writer and editor for Murdok. Visit Murdok for the latest search news.
