HD DVD dead; Blu-Ray is victor in high-def format war

Toshiba's decision regarding it's future in HD DVD production has just rolled in from Japan, via Engadget.

Toshiba's statement reads:

"[Toshiba] will no longer develop, manufacture and market HD DVD players and recorders."

So, in other words, HD DVD is dead, leaving Sony's Blu-Ray technology the victor in the long-running high-definition format war.

As Toshiba is the biggest HD DVD producer and supporter, it's opinion, judgement and final decision is the only one that matters.

More news and possible turmoil as it comes.

[via Engadget] - link includes press release

In Depth: HP Pavilion Slimline s3330f

Original article: HP's huge media centre, server & display announcement

HP Pavilion Slimline s3330f

The Pavilion Slimline s3330f looks already destined to be a success - mainly because of the inclusion of a dual-playing Blu-Ray / HD DVD drive that also utilises LightScribe labelling technology, and writes to dual-layer DVDs. That's a lot for a single disc drive to pack, but the s3330f manages to throw it all in.

In its mini-tower form factor, the s3330f also includes:

• 2.8GHz AMD Athlon 64 X2 processor
• 2gb RAM (DDR2)
• 500gb SATA HD @ 7,200 rpm
• HP Pocket Media drive bay
• 256mb NVIDIA GeForce 8500 GT
• 802.11b/g WiFi
• NTSC / ATSC TV tuners
• 15-in-1 (front-mounted) card reader

As for further connectivity, you'll find a generous serving of USB ports - 6 - audio in and out, DVI / HDMI ports, FireWire, and an included wireless keyboard and mouse, plus software.

It'll be in the US at the end of January starting at US$949, which means the s3330f could be a budget HD DVD and Blu-Ray player for Australians, before March, for near to A$1,100. What a deal.

[via Engadget, Ubergadget]