Rumor: Paramount to jump the HD DVD ship too? [update]
by Dustin Burg 
{ Jan 8th 2008 at 2:30PM }
HD DVD is getting its metaphorical bum whipped lately and things do not look to be getting any brighter.
The Financial Times has cooked up the latest HD DVD versus Blu-ray rumor and are claiming that Paramount may be close to announcing that they're going Blu-ray exclusive and abandon their multi-million dollar partnership with the HD DVD camp. The rumor is based on sources close to Paramount's deal with Toshiba saying that there is a clause in the contract that allows Paramount to back Blu-ray in the event Warner Bros. goes blu. And wouldn't you know, last week Warner did just that. If Paramount were to jump to Blu-ray then Sony would have a massive choke hold on the HD format war further pushing their movie studio support higher than their current 70% rate. The other question mark in the equation is Dreamworks who are best buds with Paramount and are said to have a similar contract with Toshiba. Oh well, there's always Universal. They got HD DVD's back ... don't they?
[Via Gizmodo, Thanks DjDATZ]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 2)
carl @ Jan 8th 2008 2:35PM
As much as I want to see this happen and become true...
Paramount confirmed that they will not jump ship back to Blu-ray....
Dun Dun DUUUUN
fidgetwidget @ Jan 8th 2008 2:43PM
Trouble is, Warner said the same thing in December, that the rumor of them moving to Blu-ray wasn't true. Its all a money game, and right now Paramount has more to gain staying with HD-DVD for at least a little while longer.
E.J. @ Jan 8th 2008 3:12PM
Paramount is waiting for THEIR $500 million from Sony to go Blu.
Once the check cleared for Warner, they said a quick good-bye to the HD-DVD format.
carl jenkins @ Jan 9th 2008 1:42AM
If xbox 360 or the wii came with hd-dvd then hd-dvd would have 4-1 sales advantage.
Bluray sells more because every ps3 comes with one.
The ps3 is a flop but still has a couple of million units sold if half of those users buy one disc it still puts blueray at advantag.
If the wii or 360 came with hd-dvd it would be a whole different story.
As the 360 is thewinner of this generation.
Oorang @ Jan 8th 2008 2:40PM
The question is, did the consumer decide which HD format they preffered or were they forced to accept what the studios dictated?
Its obvious HD DVD is the better format and that consumers dont really want blu ray (or any other hd movie format for that matter)...consumers just arent ready to move on from SD DVD. Its sad when multi national dictate the terms and dont listen to what the consumer wants.
carl @ Jan 8th 2008 2:49PM
You said that the consumers want HD-DVD and not Blu-ray yet the sales are 2:1 in favor of Blu-ray. In terms, yeah the consumer did decide. They werent forced to use Blu-ray on the PS3. They had a choice to either buy a PS3 or not. Thing is, Blu-ray isnt only for movies and it is merely a necessity for the PS3 for Disc Space. (Example of this is Metal Gear Solid 4).
At the end of the day, its what sells, and sorry to tell you but Blu-ray sells more. Consumers buy more Blu-ray than HD-DVD.
Michael Paul @ Jan 8th 2008 2:54PM
Aw, come on.
Blu-Ray came with the PS3. It's not like a gamer could have picked a BR-free model so his gaming would have been cheaper.
Someday I'll get a PS3, and then I'll be able to use a High Definition DVD player far inferior to my Sampo to play really good looking videos, and I'll still use the Sampo for everything else I own because it's BETTER. The HD-A2 HD-DVD player I have also sucks compared to the Sampo, but that's life...
bigd7387 @ Jan 8th 2008 2:43PM
They (Paramount) released a statement today that they were staying HD-DVD only. For what it's worth.
ze @ Jan 8th 2008 2:44PM
who cares..I bought mine for the games.
MrKniceGuy @ Jan 8th 2008 3:43PM
Exactly. and you are why that "70% market share" statistic is skewed.. you have a Blew-Ray player but you don't use it to watch movies! In case you didn't realize, Warner is in the movie business, not games. So while Sony is saying "we've got more players out there" YOU aren't using it!
The HD-DVD addon for 360 is a more reliable number because anyone buying one will be watching movies with it! Personally, I will not be buying a Blew-ray player until SD DVD is gone (which isn't going to happen for a long, long time) and I'm going to get all those leftover HD-DVD movies for hella cheep. :)
GregA @ Jan 8th 2008 3:21PM
Well it may be academic... Comcast said they were looking forward to working with Microsoft for their set top boxes.
Josh @ Jan 8th 2008 2:47PM
I could really care less who wins the format war...as long as there's an overall winner so the consumer doesn't have to suffer through it.
Project Ekim @ Jan 8th 2008 2:49PM
Personally i think it should be blu ray that wins its just all around better, more capacity, more space, however i think it should be called HD dvd, i mean it makes more sence if we go from VHS to DVD to HDDVD to mostlikely digital Downloads. I think the average person could see the difference more easily between DVD and HD DVD and realize that "o it says HD so its better. Now we have blu ray which does not even spell the word blue properly its just going to screw people up.
sambob117 @ Jan 8th 2008 2:52PM
the list for HD DVD's studios is dwindling. who's left?
carl @ Jan 8th 2008 2:53PM
Actually Fidgetwidget, Warner Hold out on moving to Blu-ray till this past week is because they are waiting for the Holiday Numbers to kick in. And the clear winner was Blu-ray so they said that it make sense to go Blu-ray because it was giving in more profits to the company..
Paramount could probably do the same with there 'Clause'. But dont expect an announcement any time soon.
UNSCleric @ Jan 8th 2008 3:00PM
This site sure loves reporting Blu-Ray news. Good thing they're a sponsor.
jango fett @ Jan 9th 2008 7:06AM
weblogs inc is owned by aol which is owned by time warner. either that or the writters of x3f dont realise it and do give them publicity for free without being forced to.
Tony @ Jan 8th 2008 3:05PM
I'm glad I've waited on all of this. For me it mostly comes down to the simple fact that I just don't want to spend 2 to 3 times as much on a high definition format instead of a plain old DVD. I just don't care enough.
So waiting has two good benefits. I wind up avoiding the format wars and I will probably get in when the prices match normal DVDs more. In the meantime, no thanks.
Tom @ Jan 8th 2008 3:16PM
HD-DVD and Blu-Ray can both suck it.
Digital downloads are the future.
Stephen @ Jan 8th 2008 5:06PM
Word!
robbie @ Jan 8th 2008 3:15PM
that is why i sold my hd-dvd player on ebay about a year ago....i saw this coming a mile away. I love my xbox for the games and my ps3 for the movies.
Kyle @ Jan 8th 2008 3:31PM
good. hd-dvd sucks sick in all fairness, especially if there are no plans to release a 360 with build in hd-dvd. I certainly wont be buying any add ons. I'm quite content to use my ps3 to watch hi def :D
Boss Tempo @ Jan 8th 2008 3:31PM
NO way are digital downloads the future. DVD consumers are a very specific demographic profile. Most are "collectors". They don't want to pay money each time they feel like watching their favorite movies. Think about it. What percentage of homes in this backwoods country even has broadband? The argument is less about watching the actual movie, but more about the fact that their DVDs look awesome all stacked up on their bookshelf. Yes "digital download" sounds great to geeks, gamers and techno dorks, but normal people won't screw with this any more than they're screwing with Hi Def DVDs. Anyone who thinks digital downloads are the "way of the future" seriously need to consider what type of consumers they're catering to. I'm sick of hearing about digital downloads from smelly tech-babblers who actually believe consumers will pay for their shit more than once. Anyone remember what happened with the original Circuit City Divx program? It sank miserably and for all the same reasons.
And for the record, HD-DVD extra features SMOKE Blu-Ray's. I have both formats and a kickass library of movies on each. BluRay is much weaker. If they win (and it sounds like they will), we all loose.
MrStorm @ Jan 8th 2008 3:48PM
This shows how ill informed you are. Blu-Ray was recently updated to profile 1.1 and now supports Java which is far more flexible than microsofts HDi.
HD-DVD initially had greater features and more but now this isnt so.
Boss Tempo @ Jan 8th 2008 3:59PM
MrStorm,
If you're so much more informed than myself, then why don't you enlighten me and the rest of the people here as to what BR extra features on what movie are so much better than HD's version? I want to know because chances are, I own the movie.
Java? Wow, that's new stuff right there. I'm sure it's full of "flexibility". Please tell me how Java is more flexible, since you're obviously the informed one and here my dumb ass is, working with military technology for the DoD.
Boss Tempo @ Jan 8th 2008 3:59PM
MrStorm,
If you're so much more informed than myself, then why don't you enlighten me and the rest of the people here as to what BR extra features on what movie are so much better than HD's version? I want to know because chances are, I own the movie.
Java? Wow, that's new stuff right there. I'm sure it's full of "flexibility". Please tell me how Java is more flexible, since you're obviously the informed one and here my dumb ass is, working with military technology for the DoD.
MrStorm @ Jan 8th 2008 5:59PM
Just that Java is already an established programming script / tool that many internet sites currently use. Fact that 1.1 added PiP and the abilty for the studios to develop extra content. Ok you can claim that microsoft back HD-DVD but they only did this by telling the studios they had to use HDi. Just another example of microsoft trying to screw its customers over, with an half assed attempt at supporting HD-DVD.
Java is also compatible across a range of different mobile devices(higher levels of market penetration) which also opens up the possibility for extra development and the inclusion of free games/ extra depth of interactivity etc on a blu ray movie.
"While Blu-ray and HD DVD have comparable specs in terms of supported video resolution and codec support, Blu-ray is way ahead in terms of capacity, bandwidth, interactive platform, vendor support, and studio support. Seven of the eight major studios support Blu-ray, three exclusively. Only three studios support HD DVD, one exclusively (and they are rumored to be wavering). In terms of CE support Toshiba is your only option with HD DVD, while with Blu-ray you can choose from Sony, Panasonic, Pioneer, Sharp, Samsung, LG, Philips, and more to come. Also HD DVD’s interactivity layer, HDi, is much more constrained than Blu-ray’s Java layer (which is generally compatible with OCAP, which the US cable industry has standardized on for future set-top boxes)."
http://blueboard.com/bluray/
http://www.hardcoreware.net/dragons-lair-blu-ray-java-review/
Tom @ Jan 8th 2008 8:38PM
To Boss Tempo's original post:
You're assuming that in the near future there won't be any change in the integration of new technology in home environments (refer to link below). At the very least, you must agree that advanced technology and computers are going to be standardized in the near future. It's already happening with broadband and high-speed cable: http://www.websiteoptimization.com/bw/0606/
Newer generations are becoming more and more integrated into the world of technology. Remember Henry Ford and the car? It was highly advanced technology the first time it was introduced and only the rich could afford it. Now, cars are a standard in our way of living. DVD's and Blu-Ray discs are going to be outdated just like their media predecessors before them (cassette tapes, records, VHS, Laser Discs, etc.)
JHTM @ Jan 8th 2008 3:43PM
i think HD-DVD is better for movies but Bd-R and BD-E are better for PC backups since dual layers can offer up to 50gb's - HD-DVD a little less. To be truthful the longer this c**p goes on the more annoyed the end-user (us) becomes. however i do love the PS3 fanboys harping on about PS3 blu-ray Metal gear blah blah - I read an article prior to XMAS 07 that the state of the PS3 was so dire that the demographic that purchased the console did so for the movies and NOT the games - BD's sold much more than PS3 games - hell u cant even argue people bought other BD players cause the PS3 is one of if not the cheapest BD player there was at christmas.
at end of day if BD wins - im sure MS will implement it in their console - externally or internally. I dont foresee this impacting games since MS has an amazing lineup for 2008 as highlighted on this very web site
carl @ Jan 8th 2008 4:00PM
MrKniceGuy, i am sorry but your reasons are pretty much pointless.
You say that PS3 has Blu-ray and its only used for games not for watching movies. Unlike the the XBOX 360 HD-DVD Player which atleast people who buys it know that they will buy HD-DVD's and watch them. LMFAO....
Then tell me, why is Blu-ray kicking ass on Disc Sales??? Remember, There are more StandAlone HD-DVD Players and HD-DVD PC's out there than Standalone Blu-ray Players.
The only thing I like about the HD-DVD are there extra features once connected to the internet. But hey, Blu-ray version of Harry Potter has extra content, and all in 1080p (unlike HD-DVD 480p on extra content)
Michael Paul @ Jan 8th 2008 4:11PM
More Blu-Ray sales? Well, since I can't buy (and use) Fantastic Four 2 or Pirates 3 or all of the other Blu-Ray exclusives, of course Blu-Ray goes ahead. When I look at the HD-DVDs that go for BOGOF, I already own most on DVD. No incentive.
I realize Warner says BR outsells HD copies of their stuff that's available on both, but again that could involve already owning the good stuff on DVD and not enough spare income to double-up...
MrKniceGuy @ Jan 8th 2008 5:58PM
carl, no reason to apologies. you are right. blu is outselling HD-DVD on disk sales. i don't know why, but it is. i guess I'm just upset that I could be wrong about which way the user base would go. HD-DVD is superior many ways yet people bought the Blu-ray titles. HD-DVD is future proof and Blu is not (hope you like you obsolete player!). But alas, I cannot control what you buy. I will not however, be abandoning my HD-DVD just yet. Blu sales will only drive down the prices on my selected format to compete. Sweet.
Jolard @ Jan 8th 2008 4:04PM
Blu Ray Spec 1.1 is all fine and dandy. The only problem is that there are few players (other than the PS3) that can play that. Most existing players are now functionally obsolete, unless the user is happy with less functionality on their player. As for the future, Spec 1.1 players will be far more expensive for the short term at least, and if HD-DVD disappears, then there will be little incentive to reduce prices. The time of sub $200 (and even $100) HD video players is over if HD DVD disappears.
HD-DVD had one major advantage, all their players were full specced from the beginning, and all were future proof. Not true of Blu.
Anyway, as for myself, I have an HD-DVD addon, but I only bought in because it was cheap (under $150). I won't be buying a Blu-Ray player until their prices are similar for their fully specced players, which means most likely a number of years for me, if ever unfortunately. Makes me sad. I was enjoying hi def disks.
Jolard @ Jan 8th 2008 4:07PM
Oh, and for those who say I should just buy a PS3, I have no need for one. There are VERY few PS exclusive games that I can't get on my 360, and definitely not $400 worth of exclusive games. I will get a standalone Blu-Ray player when I can get one for between $100 and $150.
flames89 @ Jan 8th 2008 4:11PM
How good can the selling info be when not all movies are available on both formats? If the one format has more titles and more popular titles to choose from, it doesn't seem like the sales figures can be too fair to use.
JHTM @ Jan 8th 2008 4:40PM
well i guess Sony need BD to do well since the PS3 is doing so lame :-D sad when the PS2 sells more units than the PS3. Dont get me wrong got nothing against Sony but i wouldnt be surprised if their fanboys are also fervent MAC fans.
X360 games future im sorry looks ALOT brighter than PS3 - also PSN is no where near as effective as LIVE - plus lets not forget IPTV + who needs BD at all when you can plug FLASH memory into X360 and stream DivX HD movies anywhere in house - NICE
Big Bird @ Jan 8th 2008 4:44PM
I know the PS3 users don't any games to play on their system, but can't they at least watch their blue ray movies and stop posting on this site? Grow up guys, your propaganda doesn't work, look at your systems sales numbers to see that. I wish metal gear would come out; they seem to think it is the Holy Grail playing through the campaign the whole 3 hours might free up this site for xbox360 gamers. Some of us don't walk the corporate zombie line that Sony wants you to....SONY says we need it We Buy...mini disc....umds....blue ray....."insert next overhyped poorly developed item here"
Tarl @ Jan 8th 2008 4:59PM
I am really not a fan of Blue Ray, and have been secretly hoping for HD to come out on top...but I still sit and wait to see what happens before I make any decisions on hardware...
Grant @ Jan 8th 2008 5:39PM
i love how rumor on the street was a HD-DVD 360 coming out... to have a whole slew of major studios dropping the format a few days later.
Corleone @ Jan 8th 2008 5:51PM
@ KYLE = D-Bag.
Obviously you've never seen an HD DVD before because the picture and sound are mind blowing......
Eddie @ Jan 8th 2008 5:54PM
The HD DVD market is hot right now. I had the idea I would clean up whatever stock everyone would be selling off, but I'm suddenly feeling I'm not the only one. And if I'm not the only one, that means there is a... MARKET for HD DVD. Anyone who stays in will make BANK because we won't have as many choices in films to choose from. Warner just made a huge mistake, rolling the dice and trying to trade in their dual format sales for even more with just one, but they're going to find they have just made the HD market very very lucrative. I wouldn't be surprised if Dream/Para jumped to pick up Warner's sales when they DID leave... and the war becomes suddenly very very interesting...
MrStorm @ Jan 8th 2008 6:03PM
you guys make me chuckle!x
MrStorm @ Jan 8th 2008 6:05PM
So what should people use lol?
jesster202 @ Jan 8th 2008 6:09PM
to me i belive this is a whole marketing tactic. and if this is true wouldnt the price on stand alone hd dvd players go way down asap and then make it the afforadble way to get hd then if enough ppl bought it i bet you the film comanys would come back to hd dvd but i also think i am undecided i want hd dvd to win because its awesome but the only outher thing is i also belive digital downloads might be the way but all in all i think hd dvd will still come out on top that is if the players become cheeper and then their will be more players on the market thus it would make more sence that hd dvd would win over blu ray but hands down blu ray will be a computers nerd back up dream due to its compascity and this is comming stright form a fan of micrsoft so i do think i have a postive veiw on both formmat mediums but for movies i do belive hd dvd is the better medium.
remer @ Jan 9th 2008 2:29AM
hd-dvd for cheaper what do you want toshiba to give them away for free the Toshiba HD-A1 HD-DVD Player is going for 139.99 on amazon heres the link
http://www.amazon.com/Toshiba-HD-A1-HD-DVD-Player/dp/B000E1PTGK
Killer @ Jan 8th 2008 6:09PM
3 Words....
HVD....that's the future, not this piss poor only spins at X52, and only 200GB.
Try no load times, data is read faster then a harddrive, data is up on the disc 10 times faster, It's going to replace film at movie theaters, so why the hell are we wanting blu-ray or hd dvd? HVD is the way to go, and it should have been from the start, but sony and toshiba fucked it up. Thanks to sony though we have this format war which allows HVD to release with the war still going. HVD>Blu-ray>VMD>HD DVD ( own HD DVD and Blu-ray), But I would love to get my hands no a HVD player. 1.6 tb of back up...woot!
MrStorm @ Jan 8th 2008 6:14PM
Ok so if bluray wasnt considered "expensive enough" how much do you think a HVD player or a disc is going to cost? I think HVD is mainly ment for storage for businesses. starting price for $3000 dollars for a HVD player lol ok :S
KFelon @ Jan 8th 2008 7:22PM
I'm looking forward to buying alot of cheap HD-DVDs in the near future. Even if the format dies, the discs will still play, and *gasp* they'll even still be in High Def.
JOtheHOBO @ Jan 8th 2008 10:58PM
Noooooooooooooooooo!
Blu-Ray is taking every thing!
Microsoft needs to make a new 360 that has all of then; DVD, HD-DVD, and Blu-Ray all in one, It would rape every thing to come.
Brian Fantana @ Jan 9th 2008 1:38AM
How is Paramount staying HD-DVD good. All it's doing is prolonging the format war. HD-DVD has no chance of winning the format war. It's a better format, in my opinion. But, they just don't have any studio support. And this is just costing the the people who bought HD-DVD players early on.