With Hollywood studios still split over competing formats for high-definition DVDs, Warner Bros. will delay the launch of a dual-format disc until next year. Earlier this year, the studio introduced a method to playback both HD formats: Total HD discs contain a Blu-ray copy of a movie on one side and the HD DVD version on the other. The concept has yet to gain traction, however, as only Warner Bros. and Paramount Pictures produce discs in both formats.
Warner believes other studios must also embrace both formats along with the Total HD technology and release at least 10 popular titles before stores would be willing to devote shelf space to the discs. That is unlikely to happen by the fourth quarter, leading the company to push back the introduction until early next year. Warner is hoping to convince other studios that overall movie disc sales are boosted when titles are available in both formats. Warner has said its double-sided disc would eliminate the need to declare a winning technology and reduce consumer confusion and fear of choosing the wrong format.