What is Blu-ray?

In February, 2002, a large group of companies announced the introduction of the Blu-ray Disc (BD) format, the next generation in optical storage. The new format offers an immense storage capacity (up to 50GB) that is perfect for High Definition video recording and distribution, as well as for storing large amounts of data. And the Blu-ray Disc format is the same size as existing CDs and DVDs, meaning your current movie and movie collection is in no danger of becoming obsolete.

In The News.
More than 20 companies have already announced Blu-ray Disc products, including players, recorders, high-definition computer drives, recordable media and PC applications.

More High-Def Content.
Blu-ray Disc has all the high-def content you've been waiting for. 90 percent of major Hollywood studios, the world's two largest music companies, PLAYSTATION 3 and leading gaming companies all support Blu-ray Disc. That means more high-def movies, more high-def concerts, more high-def games and more for you!

More High-Def Capabilities.
You get full 1080p resolution, up to 7.1 channels of surround sound, 50GB of storage capacity, real-time interactivity, backwards compatibility with your existing DVD libraries and network/Internet connectivity. With Blu-ray Disc, it's a high-def experience unlike any other.

More High-Def Products.
Blu-ray Disc gives you plenty of high-def products to choose from. After all, virtually all of the leading consumer electronics companies and four of the top PC brands support Blu-ray Disc. That means more Blu-ray Disc (BD) players, more BD PC products and more BD gaming devices.

Capacity.
A standard single-layer Blu-ray Disc can hold over 2 hours of HDTV plus another 2 hours of standard quality bonus materials. It can also hold over 13 hours of standard-definition TV. Dual-layer discs with double the capacity will be able to hold an HD movie and its HD sequels, or it could hold an entire season of your favorite TV series in standard definition.

Major companies supporting Blu-ray: Samsung, Sony, Philips, Panasonic, Dell, JVC, Mitsubishi, Pioneer, LG, Sharp,TDK, Apple and RCA. Approximately 170 total.

Major studios supporting Blu-ray: Paramount, Sony, Columbia, MGM/UA, Disney, Fox, Lion's Gate and Warner. These studios are responsible for over half the movies ever made.