when would you estimate the whole Blu Ray/HD DVD competition will pan out? as in going to one format across the board?

One Bestbuy salesperson a few weeks ago told me unequivocally by the end of 2007. I think he was smoking something during his break.

There may be some indications of what is happening at CES next month, but likely not. More likely something will happen at CES 2009. Unless something huge like Warner going exclusive or one of the other studios switching nothing will change soon.

One thing I have said before and will repeat again, Sony will not let Blu-Ray die since it is tied to PS3. Just like UMD for the PSP, Blu-Ray will continue to exist until the death of the PS3 in 7-8 years no matter what.

I think low cost dual format players are going to be the answer. So much of what makes up an HD-DVD and Blu-Ray can be shared components so there is no reason for this not to happen. Just don't expect either Toshiba or Sony to be the ones making it.

when would you estimate the whole Blu Ray/HD DVD competition will pan out? as in going to one format across the board?

There will always be both formats. If they couldn't agree before going to production they will never agree. No one's going to give in. This is a totally different situation than Beta/VCR wars because back then it was impossible to build a combo unit. With HD-DVD and BD we will see more dual format players and they will probably come down to about $250 then the two formats will continue to add features to their discs for differentation. It's also more likely to see studios releasing their movies in both formats.

The bottom line is that both formats will continue until the next technology comes along to replace them both. :eek:

My $.02 FWIW

I would compare it to the Video game world.
X-box,Playstation,Nintendo all co-exist.

Why would it be any different with discs.

I believe for many years to come you will still be able
to get a HD or Blu-Ray player,.The market demand is already
set.

At least until the 1440P stuff comes out..

Bob