Next-generation DVD battle begins
BBC reports here: The first HD DVD players and discs have gone on sale in the US.
The release marks the start of the format wars between the Toshiba-led HD DVD and the Sony-led Blu-ray systems. The first Blu-ray discs are expected in late May, while the first players will be available in June. Next-generation formats are able to store much more high-quality data, especially important for high-definition video. Both technologies use a blue laser to write information. It has a shorter wavelength so more data can be stored. A Blu-ray disc will eventually be able to store 50GB of high-quality data, while Toshiba’s HD DVD will hold 30GB. A standard DVD holds just under 5GB.
While PC World writes here: First Look: We Test Toshiba’s First HD-DVD Player, The HD-XA1 offers an impressive picture, but its performance is sluggish.