HD DVD Blu-ray launched with unfinished AACS copy protection

February 20, 2006

Today, Heise Online is reporting that manufacturers of drives for HD DVD and Blu-ray discs still plan on a March launch date. This is even though the AACS copy protection is incomplete (Advanced Access Content System). The first devices will have an interim license according to Blu-ray manufacturers. These licenses will allow the drives to be upgraded with the necessary AACS keys before the specification is finished.

Hollywood movie studios are insisting that AACS be included in all drives. Without AACS, it will not be possible to play high-resolution movies at all. A Mandatory Managed Copy (MMC) can, however, be made. Only if the holder of the copyright gives explicit consent may a limited number of copies of the original disc be created; the movie may also not be streamed via a Media Center or to mobile devices without express consent. An online connection is required to check for rights to make a permitted copy. The holder of the copyright may, however, completely rule out copies or demand a fee. AACS can renew device keys, thereby blocking manipulated drives.

The report goes on to confirm once again what we have been hearing, Toshiba plans to ship the first HD DVD players in the US as early as March. The HD-A1 will cost 500 USD; the XD-XA1, 800 USD. Toshiba pointed out that the devices will not initially support all of the interactive features of HD DVD, but they will be added later via firmware update. Both players will have an ethernet connection.

Source: Heise