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layer storing 17GB of data.
The new disc is a step beyond the current discs that hold 15GB of data in each layer
of a single-sided disc, through improvements in disc mastering technology for further
minimization of the recording pit, still using the current two 0.6-mm thick discs
bonded back-to-back standard, common to both DVD and HD DVD formats.
Toshiba also declared that the new disc can be manufactured in volume at little cost
increment.
BD Discs
TDK
Verbatim/MKM
Sony DADC
Panasonic disc manufacturing in Torrance, CA has modified (Dec 05) its existing pilot
line for single-layer BD-ROM discs to be able to replicate dual-layer discs with 50 GB
of storage capacity.
BD-ROM Pre-recorded Media
Studio Announcements
Background of movie studios joining to both formats:
In July 2005, Fox announced that, due to the BD+ protection Blu-ray incorporated in
their format, the company has decided to support Blu-ray for home video releases in
HD.
In August 2005, Universal Music Group (UMG), one of world’s largest music
companies, joined the Blu-ray Disc Association (BDA) as a contributing member
(more than 140 leading members). Content from Universal Music includes Elton
John, Maria Carey, and U2.
In August 2005, Lions Gate Entertainment (LGHE), a division of Lions Gate
Entertainment announced that it would release content on the Blu-ray Disc format.
The studio is the fourth major studio to commit publishing movies in Blu-ray, and
represents 4% of the home video market.
In October 2005, Warner announced that the studio would release titles also in the
Blu-ray format in the US, Europe, and Japan; Warner also announced that it joined
the BD Association.
In November 2005, MGM was reported to support the Blu-ray format and would start
releasing titles from its library of 4000 films.
Format Launching
Both formats brought to CES 2006 (and later again in CES 2007) a collection of
movies that would be released upon their individual launches, including some classics
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