Patent Application for HD-DVD, Blu-ray Combo Disc

WASHINGTON — A patent application spotted by New Scientist magazine may forestall the ultimate outcome of the next-generation DVD format war. According to the technology periodical, three engineers claim to have developed a technology that allows a single disc to hold both HD-DVD and Blu-ray formatted information.

“A data disc consists of several layers, including at least one layer conforming to a first format, and a second layer conforming to a second format,” the patent application abstract read. “The formats can include CD, DVD, HD and BD formats and the layers may be physical, logic or application layers.”

According to Barry Fox, a writer for New Scientist, the combination disc would be capable of playing any mix of formats, which would dramatically alter the playing field in the battle for next-gen format supremacy.

The application lists Wayne Smith, Alan Bell and Lewis Ostrover as the inventors of the technology.

Both Bell and Ostrover are Warner Bros. employees, according to Fox, who said that the studio will likely gain a strong power position in deciding which format wins out.

According to Fox, the new device would also be able to play standard DVDs on the reverse side of the disc. A triple-standard disc, he said, would cost more to produce, but it would be cheaper than producing three copies of a given title.

There is no word on when, or if, the technology will become commercially available.

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

Ryan Reid Talks Fights, Firsts and the 'Deadly Vows' Finale

When “Deadly Vows,” the latest feature from director Ricky Greenwood, premiered on Digital Playground, it delivered more than high-gloss eroticism. The series unveiled a full-throttle action spectacle with sword fights, betrayals, and a main character who combines Jackie Chan’s martial artistry with a thirst for vengeance worthy of the Bride, Uma Thurman’s memorable assassin character in “Kill Bill.”

Jade Venus, Zariah Aura Star in Latest From Evil Angel

Jade Venus and Zariah Aura star in a scene from Evil Angel.

Lilly Bell Stars in 3rd Installment of Elegant Angel's 'Cheaters Anonymous'

Reigning XMAs Girl/Girl Performer of the Year Lilly Bell stars with Quinton James in the third installment of "Cheater's Anonymous," from Elegant Angel.

Angela White Delivers a 'Pizza Party Blowbang' for Brazzers

Angela White stars in the latest release from Brazzers, titled "Pizza Party Blowbang."

Elegant Angel Releases All-Girl Orgy From '2025 Performers of the Year'

Elegant Angel has released an all-girl orgy from the 2025 edition of its annual series "Performers of the Year."

Digital Playground Drops Finale of Action Feature 'Deadly Vows'

Ryan Reid stars in the final installment of Digital Playground’s action feature “Deadly Vows.”

Ricky's Room Drops 3rd Installment of Roxie Sinner Showcase

Ricky’s Room has released the third installment of its Roxie Sinner showcase, titled "Roxie In Rotation."

Maitland Ward Featured in A&E's Docuseries 'Secrets of Celebrity Sex Tapes'

Multi-XMAs winner Maitland Ward is featured in the A&E documentary series "Secrets of Celebrity Sex Tapes."

Andi Avalon Stars in Latest From TeamSkeet

Andi Avalon stars with Scarlet Skies and Mike Mancini in a new scene for TeamSkeet’s “Shoplyfter” series, titled “Case No. 8004034 — Guards Need to Cool Off Too.”

Sarah Arabic Performs Her 1st Anal for Brazzers

Sarah Arabic performs her first anal scene alongside multi-XMAs winner Mick Blue in the latest Brazzers release.

Show More