Blu-ray vs. HD DVD: Fight or unite?

NE Asia Online has published an
interesting cover story on the Blu-ray vs. HD DVD fight in its November
issue. The article compares the formats and discusses possible outcomes of the
format war. While no one really wants two high definition formats it
unfortunately doesn't look like we will see a winner any time soon. According to
NE Asia some unnamed companies have therefore
started developing optical pick-up heads that can handle both
formats.

If the standards split just what might happen? It is possible that both might exist in the market, and a number of manufacturers have already begun developing optical heads capable of handling both Blu-ray Disc and HD DVD formats in preparation. Simulations and tests to verify capability are already complete, and developed as a number of audio-visual (AV) equipment manufacturers comment they'll be ready to ship drives supporting both formats if it becomes necessary.   No matter how fiercely the two groups fight it out, players capable of handling both formats would eliminate most of the significance of the battle. Two standards would coexist in the market for no reason, serving only to confuse consumers.

The question is if two high
definition formats can succeed or if we will end up with a scenario similar to
SACD vs. DVD Audio? Which format do you think will win
(if any)? Vote in our poll to the
left.

Source: Nikkei Electronics Asia