A Look at HD-DVD and Blu-Ray
HD-DVD
HD-DVD is a new generation of discs and players that store and run digital data, including videos.
FEATURES: 30 gigabytes on two layers; uses HDi technology from Microsoft for interactivity; more audio capability than DVDs
NO. OF TITLES: 125
PROS: Compatible with standard DVDs where HD-DVDs can play on DVD players; cheaper price at $500 per player; HD-DVD for Xbox 360 inexpensive at $199; some HD-DVD discs can play in older DVD players
CONS: Smaller disc capacity; fewer supporters among studios and consumer electronics companies
SUPPORTERS: Toshiba, Microsoft, Intel, Toshiba, Sanyo, NEC
PCS THAT RUN HD-DVD: HP, Toshiba, Acer
MAJOR STUDIO SUPPORTERS: Universal, Paramount, and Warner Bros.
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BLU RAY
Blu-ray refers to a new generation of discs and players that store and run digital data, including videos.
FEATURES: Discs have 50 gigabytes on two layers; plays video at 1080p, six times as much picture detail as a regular DVD; uses Java programming for interactivity
NO. OF TITLES: 107
PROS: Larger disc capacity with potential to grow; Blu-ray players can accommodate older DVDs; included in every PlayStation 3; Blu-ray burners available
CONS: Player prices are higher for now; Blu-ray discs cannot play on older DVD players
SUPPORTERS: Sony, Apple, Dell, Panasonic, Philips, Pioneer, Sharp, Hitachi, Samsung, Mitsubishi, LG, Thomson, NEC
PCS THAT RUN BLU-RAY: Sony Vaio desktops and notebooks, Dell computers, HP
MAJOR STUDIO SUPPORTERS: Sony Pictures, 20th Century Fox, MGM, Warner Home Video, Buena Vista Entertainment (Disney), Lions Gate Entertainment
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