HD DVD Gets Microsoft and Intel Backing

Microsoft Corp. and Intel Corp. have decided to back HD DVD as the next-generation High-Definition DVD format, and have joined the HD DVD Promotion Group which already has over 100 member companies. Developed by Toshiba Corp., the HD DVD format has been in a format war with the Sony-backed Blu-Ray format. Sony's Blu-Ray is favored by Apple Computer, Hewlett-Packard Co. and Dell, so the High definition dvd war will probably continue for some time.

Sony has said that the PlayStation 3 console, due next spring, will support Blu-ray DVDs, while future Microsoft Xbox consoles will be HDDVD compatible. Intel plans to use HD DVDs in its Viiv Media Centers next year.

“Our vision with Intel® Viiv™ technology is that digital media content can be enjoyed on these Intel-based PCs and consumer electronics devices in and around the home in an easy and affordable manner,” said Brendan Traw, Intel Fellow and chief technology officer of Intel’s Digital Home Group. “Intel has determined that HD DVD best meets the needs of consumers and the requirements for the respective consumer electronics, computer and entertainment industries for delivering a high-definition, interactive experience to the home on optical media.” more | Microsoft

Toshiba has already announced that they will launch a PC with an HD DVD drive in 2006.