Sony Music International is deciding whether to test-launch DualDisc DVD/CD hybrids in the UK following a successful trial in the US and the formal approval of the format by the DVD Forum. DualDisc essentially involves sticking a CD onto the back of the DVD Video or DVD Audio disc. The CD Audio layer is thinner than a Compact Disc, to ensure the DualDisc falls within the DVD specification thickness of 1.5mm.
DualDisc was devised as a way of adding backward compatibility to new audio disc format. For the labels, that allows them to ship a single product rather than separate DVD Audio and CD releases, and ensures consumers can build second-generation audio collections before they switch to new hardware. They will be able to play, say, higher quality DVD Audio content at home and use the same disc to play the same music in their car"s CD player.