First Hybrid Blu-ray/DVD Movie Title is to release in Japan

JVC had developed Combo DVD blue ray format disc for more than two years but not films was released in it. Making and end to the waiting, Japanese entertainment software developer Pony/Canon will release the first movie title on a hybrid Blu-ray/DVD disc in Japan in February.The first title is the world-famous "Code Blue emergency helicopter doctor Blu-ray BOX."

But the first hybrid releases will be very expensive. According to Pony/Canyon, the fist movie package would include a set of four hybrid discs (MPEG-4 AVC, Dolby Digital, 534 minutes in total) that will cost around 36,540 Yen ($406), while the DVD version (7 DVD discs, 534 minutes, Dolby Digital) will retail for 23,940 Yen ($266).



According to CDRInfo he Hybrid Blu-ray/DVD disc is a combination of a traditional DVD with the new high-definition Blu-ray format. The disc has a blue laser top layer (25GB); underneath there are two more layers just like an ordinary DVD (8.5GB). The Blu-ray and DVD layers are separated by a semi-reflective film that reflects blue light while it allows the red light to pass through the DVD layer underneath. The disc conforms to the "Blu-ray Disc, Hybrid Format" specifications released by the Blu-ray Disc Association.The Hybrid BD/DVD disc shows compatibility of 99% with existing Blu-ray and DVD players.