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Versatile Multi-layer Disc - VMD Format
Mar 06
Another high definition DVD format was introduced named “VMD” Versatile Multilayer
Disc by New Medium Enterprises (NME), but the company stated that is not
trying to compete with HD DVD or Blu-ray.
According to the company, a VMD player would cost just $150, and a VMD burner
could be introduced as well.
The disc would hold up to 40GB and could be read using low-cost red lasers of
standard DVD drives. The format is capable of multi-layers with 20GB, 30GB, and
40GB discs. Even 100GB VMD recording had been achieved in the lab.
NME is based in London, and was doing a merger with E-World, which owns a
standard called EVS, a Chinese standard that is backed by the Chinese government.
The technology can be adapted to blue laser when more affordable.
The VMD format claims to have 2,600 Bollywood titles, distributed by Eros, and
about 300 Chinese film titles through E-World, the two largest markets in the world,
according with Bolger-Hagerty from NME.
Other markets, such as the large Indian communities in London and New York might
be also included in the distribution, and Hollywood content might be possible if/when
content protection issues are addressed.
Mar 07
New Medium Enterprises has signed a retailer agreement with PC Rush, and online
electronics superstore, to distribute VMD players in the US for a period of 3 years,
TTM 2Q07.
Two players will be offered:
HD VMD Media Player Duo $200
HD VMD Media Player Quattro $250
The players feature DVD upconversion to hi def, in addition to playback VMD discs.
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