LG to Launch Dual-Format HiDef Player in UK

LG has confirmed the UK launch of its dual-format Blu-ray and HD DVD player, the Super Multi Blue. The BH100, which plays both Blu-ray and HD DVD discs, will be available from the end of May, priced at around £999.99. LG is the first manufacturer to bring this solution to market.

The Super Multi Blue incorporates interactive functions based on BD-Java, which allows advanced menus and functions to be displayed on screen while the content is playing in the background. However, as LG points out, the Super Multi Blue offers a greater level of menu interactivity for Blu-ray than when playing HD DVD discs.

"Everyone agrees that Blu-ray and HD DVD will revolutionise home entertainment and that consumer demand for high definition content is higher than before," said Daniel Aziz, LG marketing manager, digital media and car infotainment group.

"However, there has been much uncertainty and confusion around which format consumers should invest in because of the ongoing format dispute. The launch of the Super Multi Blue will remove this difficult choice. It gives consumers the freedom to watch either Blu-ray or HD DVDs without being limited to only the films available on each individual format, or being forced to by two separate players."

Samsung, LG's main competitor, has announced that it plans to launch a multi-format player, the Duo HD (BD-UP5000), later this year. Unlike the LG model, the Samsung unit offers HDi, which means a greater level of interactivity when playing HD DVD titles.