JVC has introduced a new prototype disc that combines standard DVD and new Blu-ray technology for a combined 33.5GB of capacity.
Blu-ray is a new read-only optical disc technology that increases the amount of storage on a disc with the aim of allowing content producers to distribute HD movies. But, in a CNET report, analysts warn that competing technologies - like Blu-ray and High-Definition DVD (HD-DVD) - could do more short-term harm than good by prolonging confusion in the market.
The combo creates new possibilities for future software releases that take advantage of the large 33.5GB storage capacity by combining video content with commercials, music or games on a single disc, the company said.
JVC has also developed the combo disc using a three-layer structure, two for DVD and one for Blu-ray. A reflective film lets a blue laser read the outer Blu-ray layer, and a red laser passes through the film to read the dual DVD layer within.
JVC didn’t say when its prototype would be ready for release, but said it would propose the technology to the Blu-ray Disc Association, a trade group, for consideration as a standard. JVC also said a similar disc with even greater capacity — 58.5GB — was in the works.
For more information, visit www.jvc.com.