It's a sweep, Paramount goes Blu-ray exclusive!
Today Blu-ray sealed it's victory with a kiss from Paramount, yes the one that started HD-DVD then went Dual format only to go HD-DVD exclusive. They have now followed not in the footsteps of Toshiba and Universal but rather in the shadow of Toshiba and Universal to drop HD-DVD forever.
In a statement from Paramount which read.
"We are pleased that the industry is moving to a single high-definition format, as we believe it is in the best interest of the consumer," the statement reads. "As we look to (begin) releasing our titles on Blu-ray, we will monitor consumer adoption and determine our release plans accordingly."
No further details were given.
Universal goes Bl-ray exclusive!
In dramatic style, Universal Studios announced they would follow Toshibas lead and drop the HD-DVD format. In what will be a relief more many Blu-ray fans who will now be able to sample some of those classic Steven Spielburg pictures like Jurassic Park which may debut later this fall.
Craig Kornblau said, "While Universal values the close partnership we have shared with Toshiba, it is time to turn our focus to releasing new and catalog titles on Blu-ray."
TOSHIBA SCRAP HD-DVD!
The Format War is over. Toshiba imploded today when it announced it would stop all production of HD-DVD players. This comes as a major blow to all those who have supported the format from the beginning of the format war.
Here's the Toshiba release:
TOSHIBA Announces Discontinuation of HD DVD Business
Toshiba to Redirect HD DVD Investments Towards New Digital Business Strategies
WAYNE, N.J., Feb. 19 /PRNewswire/ -- Toshiba America Consumer Products,
L.L.C. ("Toshiba") today announced that it has completed a thorough review of its overall strategy for HD DVD and as a result of recent market developments, the company has decided to discontinue sales and marketing of HD DVD players.
Accordingly, Toshiba will begin to cease shipments of its HD DVD products to retail channels.
"While we continue to believe HD DVD is the best format for consumers,
based on its technological advancements and the value and quality inherent
in our player offerings, recent market developments have led us to the
decision to choose new and different paths," said Yoshi Uchiyama, Group
Vice President of Toshiba's Digital A/V Marketing Group.
In an effort to contribute to the sound development of the audio-video market and bring the full benefits of new digital technologies to consumers, the company will shift its resources into the creation of new business strategies that leverage the vast technological resources of Toshiba.
Furthermore, Toshiba will remain committed to standard DVD business, and the company will continue to market their leading line-up of DVD players.
Ongoing Customer Commitment
Dedicated to customer support, Toshiba will continue to provide full product support and after sales service. Customers can contact, 1-888-MY HDDVD (1-888-694-3383) for answers to general questions and operational assistance for HD DVD.
About Toshiba America Consumer Products, L.L.C.
Walmart goes Blu-ray Exclusive!
It's been a few few week now since Warner dropped the HD-DVD bomb to support Blu-ray exclusively after May 8th. But now one of the top retailers in the US has done the same. This is what Walmart had to say.
"We've listened to our customers, who are showing a clear preference toward Blu-ray products and movies with their purchases, explained Gary Severson, senior vice president, Home Entertainment, Wal-Mart US.
"With the customers best interest in all we do, we wanted to share our decision and timeline with them as soon as possible, knowing it will help simplify their purchase decision, increase selection, and increase adoption long term. We anticipate enhancing our selection with continued great values in hi-definition Blu-ray products, so our customers can further enhance their entertainment experience at home."
