HD DVD's CES Press Release

Lee Stewart · 01-07-2008, 10:52 AM

HD DVD Rallies Consumer Audience in 2007 Driving Nearly One Million Dedicated
Player Sales in North America
HD DVD software sales increase during key holiday season, consistent with higher player ownership

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 7 /PRNewswire/ -- At the 2008 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, the companies of the HD DVD Promotional Group recapped a
breakthrough year for the high definition format, reaching nearly one million dedicated HD DVD players sold in North America and delivering on the promise
of affordability, quality and a consistent experience on every machine.

With a leading install base of dedicated players, there are now more than 400 titles available in the US and more than 1,000 titles available worldwide. During the key five week holiday selling period, HD DVD software sales grew at nearly twice the rate of Blu-ray, which was consistent with increased player growth.

"Our focus from day one has been to deliver the highest quality hardware and the best, most immersive home entertainment experiences for consumers at
affordable prices," said Jodi Sally, vice president of marketing, Toshiba's Digital A/V Group. "With nearly one million dedicated players in the market
in North America, and a leading position in the PC market worldwide, we're seeing software growth follow suit."

As the industry looks for a format that can break into the mainstream consumer market, HD DVD continues to be the affordable, high quality leader, setting the bar for a positive consumer experience. Through a combination of quality and price, HD DVD meets the essential requirements for any format to successfully reach the mass market.

Strong Hardware and Title Growth
In 2007, HD DVD reached a broader group of consumers than ever before, showing strong movie title sales and high attach rates stemming from the major influx of dedicated HD DVD players on the market. Based on Nielsen data, when comparing first week consumer sales, "The Bourne Ultimatum" on HD DVD outsold
"Spiderman 3" on Blu-ray. Among all high definition formats, HD DVD still maintains the highest attach rates -- more than twice the rate of Blu-ray.

"The HD DVD camp has always stuck to a simple set of principles," said Ken Graffeo, executive vice president of HD strategic marketing for Universal Studios Home Entertainment, and co-president of the HD DVD Promotional Group.

"Give consumers who buy into HD DVD what they paid for. In fact, give them more than they expected. Show them that quality and value go hand in hand
with HD DVD. Show them what advanced interactivity really means and how it can enrich your favorite movies that you watch over and over."

To this point, Toshiba's HD DVD players received several Editor's Choice and Product of the Year awards from respected media outlets, including Sound &
Vision, Electronic House, E-Gear, and Ultimate AV.
On the PC front, the HD DVD Promotional Group announced that by the end of 2007, HD DVD-enabled PCs represented more than 80% of all high definition-capable PCs. The HD DVD companies expect notebook PCs in particular to be the variable that helps keep quality high, but prices low, by driving down manufacturing costs for drives across all HD DVD players.

Global Studio Support
A critical milestone for HD DVD in helping to drive strong sales across the board was the strong support from Hollywood studios and global content
providers. In 2007, HD DVD went from being supported by 41 studios and distributors worldwide to 65.

Groundbreaking Interactive Features
Using Microsoft's HDi technology, HD DVD led the way in 2007 with never-before-seen interactive experiences that have changed how consumers interact with their favorite movies. HD DVD was the first to offer true
picture in picture director's commentary in 2007 with Warner's "300". This feature was not included in the Blu-ray version, and showcases a key HD DVD feature that caters directly to the fan community.

Universal's "Heroes" and Paramount's "Transformers" also included picture in picture features than enhance the experience for fans. HD DVD was also the first to deliver web-connected content, offering bonus material on titles such as "The Bourne Ultimatum," "Heroes: Season 1," and "Transformers" -- all offering downloadable content that's continually updated
so fans of the movie can return for new features. The interactive elements are all designed to promote an enhanced "second look" environment and to rally
the fan communities around key titles. In addition, Universal launched U-Shop, an extension of the U-Control feature, letting you buy items related
to a movie directly through the guaranteed internet connection on every HD DVD player. Universal's "Evan Almighty" was the first title to showcase this,
illustrating what can be done when every player on the market can access thesefeatures.

As the official successor to DVD, HD DVD has added to the heritage of the most successful consumer electronics format ever, bringing the highest quality HD experiences to consumers at the most affordable prices. The HD DVD Booth at CES 2008 is located in South Hall 1 (booth #21266).

About HD DVD
HD DVD is the next generation, post-DVD standard for high capacity, high
definition optical discs, approved by the DVD Forum. The DVD Forum develops
and defines DVD formats. Its more than 200 strong membership brings together
leaders in movies and entertainment, computing, consumer electronics and
software. HD DVD is fast becoming the primary visual medium for the age of
high-definition TV. The North American HD DVD Promotional Group, Inc. is an
organization established to promote the HD DVD format and educate consumers in
North America. For more information and a complete listing of HD DVD launch
titles please visit www.TheLookAndSoundOfPerfect.com.
SOURCE North American HD DVD Promotional Group, Inc.

Lauren Mayer, lmayer@webershandwick.com, or John O'Brien,
jobrien@webershandwick.com, both of Weber Shandwick, +1-425-452-5400, for
North American HD DVD Promotional Group, Inc.

Cygnus · 01-07-2008, 11:01 AM

I guess the M$/toshiba relationship is officially over. No mention of the HD-DVD add-on from M$ or toshiba.

Smthkd · 01-07-2008, 11:02 AM

Soooo, Instead of admitting defeat, they resort to past announcements to prove why they are the better format? I like Toshiba but this is pretty weak, I expect more from them right now! I have invested heavily in their standalones and this is all we get?, What they have done "so" far! Not convincing at all. Where are all the new HD DVD announcents and technology like BDA groups? So far I have seen at least 10 new BDA product announcements on Gizmodo.com but none from HD DVD group except "we are cancelling our Sun. conference"! What a waste!

**bruceames** · 01-07-2008, 11:05 AM

Universal's statement really says nothing.

Dare · 01-07-2008, 01:02 PM

That's a response? Oh well. I was looking for them to do something real, instead of just reiterating their boilerplate material. They apparently just want to continue with business as usual, even though that course has gotten their asses handed to them. What a waste.

Liquidx · 01-07-2008, 01:19 PM

Meh, this is sorta a catch 22 for me...

I'm annoyed that they aren't doing anything to combat the Warner news and basically are leaving HD DVD owners out to dry.

On the other hand I'm glad they are a seemingly going away and this war is winding down.

Whatever, these formats aren't my life, it's my hobby. I'm seriously thinking about avoiding HDM on both formats for now. At the end of the day, neither company gives a shit about the consumer.

I'll save my pennies for a rainy day.

Lee Stewart · 01-07-2008, 01:25 PM

"A fart in the breeze baby . . . nothing more than a fart in the breeze."

We all know what HD DVD did for 2007.

We want to know what 2008 holds for the HD DVD owner.

The slience is deafing!

tomes · 01-07-2008, 01:31 PM

There doesn't seem to be any planned counter-attacks, that for sure. Not that I would expect them to come up with new tactics in the couple of days since the announcement, but you would think they had something pipelined from before the Warner news?

Looks like it is just a matter of time now for the war to officially end.

phearcat · 01-07-2008, 01:32 PM

Quoting a bunch of numbers isn't going to save the format. The window is now open until May for them to do something big.

Warner might not change their mind but if they can't get some other studios to throw in support before then and they loose Warner, New Line and HBO and don't pick up any others, then its pretty much over for HD DVD by this summer.

**kamspy** · 01-07-2008, 01:47 PM

Look to the avatar.

Blu-Ray may be the new Brawndo!

Ntruder · 01-07-2008, 01:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Smthkd

Soooo, Instead of admitting defeat, they resort to past announcements to prove why they are the better format? I like Toshiba but this is pretty weak, I expect more from them right now! I have invested heavily in their standalones and this is all we get?, What they have done "so" far! Not convincing at all. Where are all the new HD DVD announcents and technology like BDA groups? So far I have seen at least 10 new BDA product announcements on Gizmodo.com but none from HD DVD group except "we are cancelling our Sun. conference"! What a waste!

They are the better format. But some companies, and lost of HDF members are too short sighted to understand why. They can't see past the artificial sales lead that is the result of packaging a free BD drive with a children's video game machine.

dontknowjack · 01-07-2008, 01:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ntruder

They are the better format. But some companies, and lost of HDF members are too short sighted to understand why. They can't see past the artificial sales lead that is the result of packaging a free BD drive with a children's video game machine.

If you are right, than Blu-Ray will not win and we will all end up going back to regular DVDs. I hope you are wrong because I like High Defintion Media.

Stew4HD · 01-07-2008, 02:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ntruder

They are the better format. But some companies, and lost of HDF members are too short sighted to understand why. They can't see past the artificial sales lead that is the result of packaging a free BD drive with a children's video game machine.

QFT!

tomes · 01-07-2008, 02:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by phearcat

Quoting a bunch of numbers isn't going to save the format. The window is now open until May for them to do something big.

Warner might not change their mind but if they can't get some other studios to throw in support before then and they loose Warner, New Line and HBO and don't pick up any others, then its pretty much over for HD DVD by this summer.

New Line/HBO has already decided to become Blu-Ray exclusive as far as I can see.

http://www.variety.com/article/VR111...ryid=1009&cs=1

About half way down in the Variety article...

"Sony, Fox, Disney and Lionsgate all back Blu-ray. Warners sister companies New Line and HBO will also shift their allegiance to Blu-ray only as well."

Stew4HD · 01-07-2008, 02:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dontknowjack

If you are right, than Blu-Ray will not win and we will all end up going back to regular DVDs. I hope you are wrong because I like High Defintion Media.

My signature speaks for me on this topic. How did Sony respond to the WB news? It raised the price of their SA player by 100$.

01-07-2008, 10:52 AM	#1
Lee Stewart Behold - the future! Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Albuquerque, NM Age: 58 Posts: 25,188	HD DVD's CES Press Release . . . You Wanted A response - here it is. HD DVD Rallies Consumer Audience in 2007 Driving Nearly One Million Dedicated Player Sales in North America HD DVD software sales increase during key holiday season, consistent with higher player ownership LAS VEGAS, Jan. 7 /PRNewswire/ -- At the 2008 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, the companies of the HD DVD Promotional Group recapped a breakthrough year for the high definition format, reaching nearly one million dedicated HD DVD players sold in North America and delivering on the promise of affordability, quality and a consistent experience on every machine. With a leading install base of dedicated players, there are now more than 400 titles available in the US and more than 1,000 titles available worldwide. During the key five week holiday selling period, HD DVD software sales grew at nearly twice the rate of Blu-ray, which was consistent with increased player growth. "Our focus from day one has been to deliver the highest quality hardware and the best, most immersive home entertainment experiences for consumers at affordable prices," said Jodi Sally, vice president of marketing, Toshiba's Digital A/V Group. "With nearly one million dedicated players in the market in North America, and a leading position in the PC market worldwide, we're seeing software growth follow suit." As the industry looks for a format that can break into the mainstream consumer market, HD DVD continues to be the affordable, high quality leader, setting the bar for a positive consumer experience. Through a combination of quality and price, HD DVD meets the essential requirements for any format to successfully reach the mass market. Strong Hardware and Title Growth In 2007, HD DVD reached a broader group of consumers than ever before, showing strong movie title sales and high attach rates stemming from the major influx of dedicated HD DVD players on the market. Based on Nielsen data, when comparing first week consumer sales, "The Bourne Ultimatum" on HD DVD outsold "Spiderman 3" on Blu-ray. Among all high definition formats, HD DVD still maintains the highest attach rates -- more than twice the rate of Blu-ray. "The HD DVD camp has always stuck to a simple set of principles," said Ken Graffeo, executive vice president of HD strategic marketing for Universal Studios Home Entertainment, and co-president of the HD DVD Promotional Group. "Give consumers who buy into HD DVD what they paid for. In fact, give them more than they expected. Show them that quality and value go hand in hand with HD DVD. Show them what advanced interactivity really means and how it can enrich your favorite movies that you watch over and over." To this point, Toshiba's HD DVD players received several Editor's Choice and Product of the Year awards from respected media outlets, including Sound & Vision, Electronic House, E-Gear, and Ultimate AV. On the PC front, the HD DVD Promotional Group announced that by the end of 2007, HD DVD-enabled PCs represented more than 80% of all high definition-capable PCs. The HD DVD companies expect notebook PCs in particular to be the variable that helps keep quality high, but prices low, by driving down manufacturing costs for drives across all HD DVD players. Global Studio Support A critical milestone for HD DVD in helping to drive strong sales across the board was the strong support from Hollywood studios and global content providers. In 2007, HD DVD went from being supported by 41 studios and distributors worldwide to 65. Groundbreaking Interactive Features Using Microsoft's HDi technology, HD DVD led the way in 2007 with never-before-seen interactive experiences that have changed how consumers interact with their favorite movies. HD DVD was the first to offer true picture in picture director's commentary in 2007 with Warner's "300". This feature was not included in the Blu-ray version, and showcases a key HD DVD feature that caters directly to the fan community. Universal's "Heroes" and Paramount's "Transformers" also included picture in picture features than enhance the experience for fans. HD DVD was also the first to deliver web-connected content, offering bonus material on titles such as "The Bourne Ultimatum," "Heroes: Season 1," and "Transformers" -- all offering downloadable content that's continually updated so fans of the movie can return for new features. The interactive elements are all designed to promote an enhanced "second look" environment and to rally the fan communities around key titles. In addition, Universal launched U-Shop, an extension of the U-Control feature, letting you buy items related to a movie directly through the guaranteed internet connection on every HD DVD player. Universal's "Evan Almighty" was the first title to showcase this, illustrating what can be done when every player on the market can access thesefeatures. As the official successor to DVD, HD DVD has added to the heritage of the most successful consumer electronics format ever, bringing the highest quality HD experiences to consumers at the most affordable prices. The HD DVD Booth at CES 2008 is located in South Hall 1 (booth #21266). About HD DVD HD DVD is the next generation, post-DVD standard for high capacity, high definition optical discs, approved by the DVD Forum. The DVD Forum develops and defines DVD formats. Its more than 200 strong membership brings together leaders in movies and entertainment, computing, consumer electronics and software. HD DVD is fast becoming the primary visual medium for the age of high-definition TV. The North American HD DVD Promotional Group, Inc. is an organization established to promote the HD DVD format and educate consumers in North America. For more information and a complete listing of HD DVD launch titles please visit www.TheLookAndSoundOfPerfect.com. SOURCE North American HD DVD Promotional Group, Inc. Lauren Mayer, lmayer@webershandwick.com, or John O'Brien, jobrien@webershandwick.com, both of Weber Shandwick, +1-425-452-5400, for North American HD DVD Promotional Group, Inc. Last edited by Lee Stewart; 01-07-2008 at 11:02 AM. Reason: fix title

01-07-2008, 11:02 AM	#3
Smthkd Vick missed as a Falcon! Join Date: Jun 2004 Location: Atlanta, GA Posts: 1,270	Soooo, Instead of admitting defeat, they resort to past announcements to prove why they are the better format? I like Toshiba but this is pretty weak, I expect more from them right now! I have invested heavily in their standalones and this is all we get?, What they have done "so" far! Not convincing at all. Where are all the new HD DVD announcents and technology like BDA groups? So far I have seen at least 10 new BDA product announcements on Gizmodo.com but none from HD DVD group except "we are cancelling our Sun. conference"! What a waste! __________________ Media/Family Room: HP MD6580n 1080p DLP Onkyo 705 Receiver Sony 400 Dics CD Player Sony 5 Disc DVD Player Sony BD350 Blu-Ray Toshiba XA2 (42 HD DVD's) Sony 120gig PS3 (80 Blu-Ray/12 Games) Infinity CC2; 4 Infinity RS5; 2 Infinity RS2 Velodyne DDS12; Directv HR20 Monster Power HTS2500 MKII Master Bedroom: Hitachi 55HDS69 Plasma; Toshiba A2, Sony STR-DA4ES; Velodyne DDS10 Directv - H20 Receiver Seating Room: Panasonic 34" Widescreen HDtv, Toshiba A2, Directv - H20 Receiver

01-07-2008, 01:02 PM	#5
Dare I moon you. Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Phoenix, Arizona Posts: 4,436	That's a response? Oh well. I was looking for them to do something real, instead of just reiterating their boilerplate material. They apparently just want to continue with business as usual, even though that course has gotten their asses handed to them. What a waste. __________________ LG GGC-H20L Super Multi Blue Blu-ray & HD DVD ROM Drive 58 31

01-07-2008, 01:31 PM	#8
tomes High Definition is the definition of life. Join Date: Nov 2007 Posts: 1,416	There doesn't seem to be any planned counter-attacks, that for sure. Not that I would expect them to come up with new tactics in the couple of days since the announcement, but you would think they had something pipelined from before the Warner news? Looks like it is just a matter of time now for the war to officially end. __________________ The War is OVER!!!!!

01-07-2008, 01:32 PM	#9
phearcat Me So HD Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: The OC Age: 39 Posts: 698	Quoting a bunch of numbers isn't going to save the format. The window is now open until May for them to do something big. Warner might not change their mind but if they can't get some other studios to throw in support before then and they loose Warner, New Line and HBO and don't pick up any others, then its pretty much over for HD DVD by this summer. __________________ 50" Pioneer Plamsa pdp-5070hd HDTV XBox 360 Elite (HDMI) w/HD-DVD XBL: Phear Cat Nintendo Wii HD DVD: 41

01-07-2008, 11:01 AM	#2
Cygnus The Bringer of Balance Join Date: Dec 2004 Posts: 6,828	I guess the M$/toshiba relationship is officially over. No mention of the HD-DVD add-on from M$ or toshiba. __________________ Toshiba 57H81 Kenwood VR-616 Comcast DCT6412 III XBox 360 GamerTag Sec0nd2N0n3

01-07-2008, 11:05 AM	#4
bruceames Moderator Join Date: May 2006 Location: San Rafael, CA Posts: 10,166	Universal's statement really says nothing.

01-07-2008, 01:19 PM	#6
Liquidx iFanboy Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: Boston Posts: 1,245	Meh, this is sorta a catch 22 for me... I'm annoyed that they aren't doing anything to combat the Warner news and basically are leaving HD DVD owners out to dry. On the other hand I'm glad they are a seemingly going away and this war is winding down. Whatever, these formats aren't my life, it's my hobby. I'm seriously thinking about avoiding HDM on both formats for now. At the end of the day, neither company gives a shit about the consumer. I'll save my pennies for a rainy day.

01-07-2008, 01:25 PM	#7
Lee Stewart Behold - the future! Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Albuquerque, NM Age: 58 Posts: 25,188	"A fart in the breeze baby . . . nothing more than a fart in the breeze." We all know what HD DVD did for 2007. We want to know what 2008 holds for the HD DVD owner. The slience is deafing!

01-07-2008, 01:47 PM	#10
kamspy Esteban Moderatoro Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Cincinnati,OH Good Posts: 12 Posts: 13,040	Look to the avatar. Blu-Ray may be the new Brawndo!

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