Is it possible that the Dual Layer standard may be on the way out? If we can believe this article that D4rk0n3 spotted for us over at CoolTechZone , then it seems that this may not be too far fetched. While we contnue to observe dropping prices for DVD writers, we can't find any indication for a similar trend in the market for Dual Layer media. Up until today, we have had to pay as much as US $10 for a single, Dual Layer DVD and according to CoolTechZone, we should not see drops to Single Layer price levels this year. Some blank media providers are indicating we will see prices varying from US $4 to $6. This is simply explained by the high failure rate in production, the low popularity of the DL standard and not to forget, the upcoming next generation standards Blu-ray and HD-DVD. Of course, the popularity of Dual Layer will rise this year, but will price drops to US $4 be enough for Dual Layer to survive? Especially when we notice continued decreases in the Single Layer market and when we consider the arrival of Blu-ray and HD-DVD this year. Probably not, and the disk providers may be right when they say: 'DL standard may not have a bright future ahead of it". Those of you that would like to read more, you can find this very interesting article over at CoolTechZone.
In summary, don't expect DL prices to reach regular DVD disc prices this year. The popularity of the DL standard will definitely rise in 2005, but not to specific strengths. On the other hand, regular DVD media should also drop in prices significantly this year. High-quality DL writers will soon enter the market in vast quantities and features, which should give you a good enough choice for your selection. Until then, all we can do is wait for Blu-Ray and HD DVD to better predict the future of portable storage market.
Source: CoolTechZone
