Abstract
Summary
DVD player shipments have started to decline, while DVD recorder shipments are
growing, globally. The DVD player market benefits from versatility in form
factors. DVD players can be seen in portable renditions, integrated with VCRs,
or in the back seats of SUVs. While DVD recorders have come down in price,
there is still a fairly large difference in the pricing of DVD players and DVD
recorders; therefore, each represents a different value proposition.
DVD recorders are evolving into media server devices. In 2006, Ethernet and
USB ports became more and more common. Added connectivity means that consumers
can aggregate digital pictures, download MP3 files, or transfer old VHS tapes
onto DVD discs.
This report reviews in detail the technical and market barriers confronting
next-generation DVD players. Currently, there is no clear-cut winner in the
HD-DVD vs. Blu-ray format war. The outcome of this battle will not only depend
on the IC manufacturers and the consumer electronics producers, but also on
the attitude of content providers, government support, and digital
broadcasting situations in each region. However, In-Stat believes that the
universal combo player, which plays both HD-DVD and Blu-ray discs, will not be
a sustainable solution unless prices decline, as it currently costs more than
purchasing two players separately.
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