Halo 3 News from Europe

The Bungie team is in Europe, doing some interviews for the press there. One bit of news was just announced.

Confirmed: 4 player co-op over Xbox LIVE or system link.

More details, including how it works, and which players you control (including two brand new characters) at "The Tru7h About Co-Op in Halo 3" at Bungie.net.

from Gamerscore Blog

Heroes: Season 1 seven-disc HD DVD set previewed at Comic-Con

The HD DVD Promotional Group is on the ground at Comic-Con, with the price drop of the Xbox 360 HD DVD add-on and accompanying 5 free disc promotional offer, with more details of content to expect this holiday season. The Heroes: Season 1 HD DVD boxed set will be available August 28, including HDi features exclusive to the high def release, like a web enabled download center, Heroes Abilities Test, picture-in-picture commentary and others. This is Universal's first release to take advantage of HD-DVD's online capabilities, but it won't be the last. The seven disc package has an SRP of $99.98, and as mentioned earlier, Xbox Live members will be able to download the pilot episode for free before its release.

from Engadget HD

MGS4 dated; might go multiplatform, says Konami President

When Konami and Kojima Studios held a party last week in honor of Metal Gear Solid's 20th anniversary, video game journalists spotted Xbox Japan General Manager Takahashi Sensui at the event. Fans immediately speculated that this could be a hint that Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots is heading to the Xbox 360.

If we are to believe the following insider scoop sent to gaming site Kotaku, then we just might see Solid Snake stealthily prowling outside PlayStation borders. Reportedly, Konami had an analyst meeting today to talk about the following:

• Metal Gear Solid 4's exact release date will be announced at the Tokyo Game Show.
• President Fumiaki Tanaka of Konami Digital Entertainment stated that release is likely Q4 March 2008.
• President Tanaka also stated, "As we are aware of the popularity and hardware-driving power of this software franchise, going forwards we are open to taking this franchise across to other platforms".

Like we said, the meeting just transpired hours ago and there's no way of verifying the said information. You could take this rumor with as much credibility as you want. Or, we could all just wait and see what happens.

from X360 QJ.NET

Rockstar: Only GTA IV on Xbox has 'complete experience'

A Rockstar representative tells GamesRadar that there is no advantage to owning the PS3 version of Grand Theft Auto IV over Xbox 360. He says they are identical games, and then you can almost hear the slap, "But I guess if you want the complete experience with the episodes, then yeah, you should buy the 360, I suppose." See what $50 million will get those Xbox kids? But remember, Microsoft is still going to charge for the extra content, so it's not like the core game is any different.

"Will the episodes ever see the light of day on the PS3?" is the real question. The word "exclusive" in the video game industry is almost as flexible as Alanis Morissette's use of the word "ironic." Exclusive, timed exclusive ... ironic, coincidence -- who knows what words mean anymore. As long as Sony offers up some cash, we think they could get the episodes too -- you know, if they did that sort of thing.

from Joystiq

Xbox 360 Elite designed not to be prone to Red Ring of Death?

Amidst the helter-skelter of Microsoft rushing to fix the Xbox 360's chronic design problems (even allocating US 1 billion for the cause), the company has hinted that the more expensive console, the Xbox 360 Elite, is designed not to fall prey to the Red Ring of Death.

Robbie Bach, president of Entertainment and Devices division, acknowledged that the problem lies in the design itself, not a manufacturing problem or manufacturing partner problem. Microsoft found a way of going around the design problem, and has better-designed units out in the market right now.

SPOnG supposes that the better-designed units Microsoft is referring to are the Xbox 360 Elite, which had a different design, such as the HDMI. While it's no surprise that the Elite is built differently compared to the standard units, SPOnG emphasized one strange point: The Xbox 360 Elite, released earlier this year, was deliberately designed to avoid the Red Ring of Death pitfall.

We'll leave the thinking to you, folks. Bach was also a bit vocal with cost reduction, saying, "We are, and have been since the beginning, right on track with where we expected to be with cost reduction."

from X360 QJ.NET

HD DVD and Blu-ray releases on July 31st, 2007

This week's hottest title is without a doubt 300, not only is it one of the biggest releases of the year, but it's also available on every format -- and it's released in an otherwise boring month for titles. The HD DVD version has the edge, 'cause while the Blu-ray camp waits for profile 1.1, Warner pulls out all the stops with PIP and web-content. It's not all bad for Blu-ray, as their version does include both a PCM and TrueHD soundtrack. HD DVD continues to catch up to Blu-ray and is now within seven, but looking forward a few months, it doesn't look like HD DVD is going to catch up any time soon.

HD DVD 265 vs Blu-ray 272.

Blu-ray

• 300 (Warner)
• IMAX: Blue Planet (Warner)
• IMAX: Roving Mars (Disney)
• Planet Earth (US Version) (Discovery Channel)
• Shooter (Paramount)

HD DVD

• 300 (Warner)
• Darkman (Universal)
• Hot Fuzz (Universal)
• IMAX: Blue Planet (Warner)
• Planet Earth (US Version) (Discovery Channel)
• Sea of Love (Universal)
• Shaun of the Dead (Universal)
• Shooter (Paramount)

from Engadget HD

Circuit City ad confirms 360 price drop on all models

Alright kids, it's probably safe to put the term "rumor" to bed now. Tipster ToeFurB sends us (and Joystiq) images of an upcoming Circuit City ad which reconfirms the 360 price drops we've seen in the Wal-Mart and Toys R' Us ads. The 360 Premium will see a $50 price break, the Elite will be reduced by $30, and the Core slims down by $20. For the Premium, Elite, and Core, this results in prices of $349, $449, and $279 respectively. Not only that, but those who purchase the newly discounted Premium console from Circuit City will also receive a free copy of Rockstar's Table Tennis. The ad is dated for August 12, so mark your calendars.

from Xbox 360 Fanboy

It's Official: Halo 3 has four player, online co-op

Speaking at a Microsoft press conference in Amsterdam earlier today, Bungie has confirmed, once and for all, that Halo 3 will feature two to four player online co-operative play over Xbox Live. This news comes after months of rumors and slip-ups, but is extremely appreciated nonetheless.

Details are extremely sparse at the moment (chugging a Mountain Dew while snowboarding with a live bear extreme) but we can tell you this: we have Bungie's word. Bungie will be issuing an update themselves on this matter over at their website later today, so be patient and we'll have further information for you as soon as it rolls in.

from Joystiq

Xbox HD DVD player now $179, includes 5 free movies

Microsoft's first announcement to come out of Comic Con is an Xbox 360 HD DVD player price drop. Beginning August 1st (in the US), the Xbox 360 HD DVD player add on will receive a $20 price cut, retail for $179 and include five free HD DVD movies as part of the "Perfect Offer". The five free movie deal runs from August 1st through September 30th, full list of free HD DVDs to choose from posted after the break.

Also announced was Microsoft's partnership with Warner Bros. to feature 300 in HD on the XBLM starting August 14th and offer exclusive Heroes Marketplace downloads prior to its season one release to HD DVD. The free Heroes content will include trailers, episode teasers, promotional materials and a free Marketplace download of the pilot episode in HD.

With today's HD DVD player price drop it makes it one of the cheapest ways to experience HD content and is quite the tempting offer. We just might end up caving in this August and splurging to experience the look and sound of perfect. HD content FTW!

Free HD DVDs to Choose From:
Apollo 13
Blazing Saddles
Casablanca
The Chronicles of Riddick
Constantine
The Dukes of Hazzard
Four Brothers
Lara Croft: Tomb Raider
The Perfect Storm
The Rundown
Seabiscuit
Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow
U2: Rattle and Hum
U-571
We Were Soldiers

Denon's first Blu-ray player stuns with features and $2k pricetag

Denon has announced its first real Blu-ray player, with an appropriate assortment of never-before-seen features and price tag to match. The DVD-3800BCI will launch this fall as the first high definition player to include Silicon Optix's 10-bit Realta HQV video processor, recently seen in Syntax-Brillian's $10k LCD and the big brother to the Toshiba HD-XA2's Reon. The first Profile 1.1 Blu-ray player we've seen, it supports separate picture-in-picture audio and video streams. Unfortunately, $1,999 isn't enough to provide an Ethernet port, so any online content will need to be downloaded on a PC and sneakernetted to the player via SD card. Finally, internal decoding for all Blu-ray surround sound formats is included, and it's the first player with an HDMI 1.3a output, providing enough bandwidth to pass sound natively to a receiver for decoding. Announced but unfortunately unpriced is the DVD-2500BTCI Blu-ray Transport, dropping the advanced audio and video processing for those with their own receivers and scalers. Coming from a company that sells a $3,800 DVD player, the price isn't too surprising, but we hope there are cheaper (& network-enabled) new Blu-ray options forthcoming.

from Engadget HD

Samsung announces more details on 3rd-gen and dual-format players

Samsung has released more details about the company's third-generation Blu-ray player lineup, including a home theater-in-a-box system, and the Duo HD dual-format HD DVD / Blu-ray player. We learned about the two Blu-ray players earlier this month, and we can add to that info support on both players for 24 or 60fps playback at 1080p. The BD-P2400 also adds 7.1-channel output, with the BD-P1400 sporting 5.1 outs. The dual-format BD-UP5000 was also announced back in April, and now we know that it will play back both of the high-definition formats at 1080p and includes the HQV upconversion processor chip found in the BD-P2400. It includes the same feature set as the BD-P2400, with Blu-ray playback at 24 or 60fps, 7.1-channel out, and Dolby Digital Plus and DTS HD support. It also has HD DVD-specific features like local storage and picture-in-picture support, while staying fully compatible with both the HDi and BD-J interactive specs. The HT-BD2 home theater system includes an 1,100-watt receiver and the same media playback features as the BD-P1400. It also includes five tower speakers, two rear satellites, and a powered sub. The BD-UP5000 will retail for $1,049, and the HT-BD2 will ship for $1,499, both in the fourth quarter of this year.

from Engadget HD

Toshiba extends 5 free HD DVD offer until September 31

We are shocked, SHOCKED to find out that not only does giving away movies and lowering prices increase HD DVD hardware and software sales, but now Toshiba has announced it is extending its "The Perfect Offer" of five free HD DVDs from a selection of 15, via mail-in with the purchase of any Toshiba HD DVD player. Originally set to run through July, the promotion has been extended until September 30th, so you might be able to find out if that Harry Potter box set has any HDi special features before choosing a side in the format war. Still, with the base HD-A2 player at a price of $299 and several free movies in the mix, Toshiba's certainly hoping to grab the attention of remaining fence sitters and current Blu-ray owners alike.

Pioneer intros sexy KURO plasma lineup

Shortly after Samsung and Hitachi unveiled their swank HDTV lineups, along comes Pioneer with a sexy plasma lineup of its own to shake things up. The KURO displays are segmented into two divisions, one which includes the 42- and 50-inch standard KUROs, and the other packing "Elite" KUROs of the same sizes. The 42-inch versions sport a 1,024 x 768 resolution panel, four independent HDMI 1.3 inputs, a built-in CableCARD slot, advanced PureCinema with 3:3 pulldown, and more tweakable settings than you can shake a stick at. The 50-inch flavors up the ante with a 1,365 x 768 resolution, and the Elite versions add the Home Media Gallery, come ready for ISFccc calibration, and include a few more choices throughout the display setting menus. Pricing and availability information doesn't look to be available just yet, but judging solely by the specifications on these beauties, we'd say you better bring the purse (as in, the whole thing) if looking seriously at one of these.

from Engadget

PS3 pricecut is actually a "clearance sale", what a SHAME!!

It appears that Sony simply reduced the price of the 60GB PS3 so they could clear them out. Apparently NO more will be made after the current inventory sells out in the next month or two. After that the only available version will be the new 80GB 599.00 model with Motorstorm (included). I am sorry, but regardless of what this does for Sony's losses it suck ASS. I thought Sony was actually attempting to gain some market-share especially since Konami is threatening to take MGS4 multi-platform but nothing has really changed at Sony, they are still completely clueless. :( Microsoft and Nintendo should no longer worry about Sony as they lack the competence to Win the WAR.

Arstechnica has the news HERE.

Sharp's 65 and 52-inch AQUOS T-Series: world's first THX certified LCDs

Even though Runco announced their development plans first, Sharp appears to be the first to market with a THX certified television. In fact, they've got two: a 65-inch and 52-inch LCD for Sharp's new AQUOS T-series. That THX logo is meant to ensure the best match of brightness and contrast with video processing for a home theater level of video reproduction. Interestingly though, the rated 350cd/m2 brightness and 2,500:1 contrast is a step down from the AQUOS R-series' 450cd/m2 and 3,000:1. Sharp's explanation? They expect these panels to be used exclusively in the darkest of home theaters. Er, ok. As to the rest, you'll get a 1,920 x 1,080 120Hz ASV panel with 3x 1080p HDMI (plus 3x Japanese D5), 1x DVI, 2x Firewire, IrSS, and Ethernet. Both will be ready in Japan come September when you'll need ¥1,417,500 (about $11,599) for the LV-65TH1 or ¥840,000 (about $6,873) for the LV-52TH1. While we have a sneaking suspicion they'll be worth it, we'll be waiting for the reviews before dropping that kind of dough.

from Engadget

Peter Moore Resigns From Microsoft

Peter Moore Resigns From Microsoft to Return to Northern California

Don Mattrick appointed to head Microsoft’s Xbox and Games Business.

REDMOND, Wash. — July 17, 2007 — Microsoft Corp. today announced that Don Mattrick, a former president at Electronic Arts Inc. (EA), will lead the Interactive Entertainment Business (IEB), which includes overseeing the Xbox^® and Games for Windows^® businesses. Peter Moore, who currently serves as corporate vice president of IEB, has decided to move his family back to the Bay Area for personal reasons and has secured another opportunity in the video games industry.

Mattrick will take over as the senior vice president of IEB at Microsoft, effective July 30. Mattrick was the founder of Distinctive Software Inc., which operated as a private company from 1982 until its merger with EA in 1991. Mattrick held various senior positions within EA, most recently as president of Worldwide Studios, until his resignation in February 2006. In February 2007, Mattrick began working with the Entertainment and Devices Division at Microsoft as an external advisor.

“Peter has contributed enormously to the games business since joining Microsoft in 2003 and we are sad to see him go,” said Robbie Bach, president of Entertainment and Devices Division at Microsoft. “Since that time, he presided over the global launch of the Xbox 360™, spearheaded a revitalized and rebranded Games for Windows business, and helped steer the console’s ascent.”

Moore has decided to return with his family to Northern California, where they lived until he took the position at Microsoft. Moore will remain at Microsoft to assist in the transition through August and will then return to the San Francisco Bay area.

“While Peter will certainly be missed, we are delighted to have one of the industry’s most talented and passionate veterans on board to lead the business,” Bach said. “Don is well-known and respected throughout the industry for his deep knowledge, technical expertise and management savvy. Under Don’s leadership, the games team is looking forward to embarking on our biggest holiday ever, with a wide-ranging roster of some of the most highly anticipated titles.”

Mattrick brings 23 years of games industry and development experience to the strong Microsoft management team, having helped bring to life such celebrated game franchises as the “Need for Speed,” “Harry Potter” and “The Sims” while at EA.

“Over the past two decades, and the past few months in particular, I’ve worked closely with many of Microsoft’s top leaders and I’ve always been impressed by their talent, passion and commitment,” said Mattrick. “I’m thrilled to join an already strong team that’s delivering truly amazing gaming experiences to customers around the world. I’ve never been more excited about the future of the industry, and firmly believe Microsoft will lead the next great innovations in gaming.”

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

Xbox 360 Facts 'n Stats are statilicious

Breaking news! This just in! The Xbox 360 is a success! As part of their press release blitzkrieg, Microsoft decided to supply us with some Facts 'n Stats ammunition to prove how awesome the Xbox 360 and its community really is. So, we're passing along the news.

Supplied in their Facts 'n Stats are little statistical gems post-marketing spun for easy digestion. Little gems like 18 million Xbox 360 games have been sold worldwide, which is twice as many sold as both competitors combined. And another stating that Xbox Live has garnered 7 million members and that in the last year a new member has joined Xbox Live every 8 seconds. Or how about one of our favorites that since November, sixteen third party Xbox 360 titles have broken into the top ten best selling games (NPD figures) while third party titles on the PS3 or Wii have yet to achieve any top ten status. Fun, isn't it? More Facts 'n Stats enjoyment can be had after the break.

Leadership
- More than 11.6 million Xbox 360 consoles have sold across the 37 countries where it is currently available. Xbox LIVE is currently available in 25 countries across the globe.
- According to NPD in the U.S., since our competitors launched in November, consumers have spent $2.4 billion on Xbox 360 consoles, games and accessories at retail; nearly as much as both of our competitors combined.
- Since our competitors launched we've sold more than 18 million games. That's more than both the Wii and PS3 combined, according to NPD.
- Faster than expected, Xbox LIVE has eclipsed the 7 million member milestone and is on track to reach 10 million members by the end of June 2008 making it larger than the largest city in the U.S. In fact, in the last year we've added a new Xbox LIVE member every 8 seconds.

Gaming
- There are more than 250 games available today on Xbox 360, including 71 Xbox LIVE Arcade games.
- Xbox 360 is the next-gen console with the largest games attach rate at an astounding 5.9 games sold per Xbox 360 owner.
- Since November, 65 percent of all next-generation third-party console games sold were Xbox 360 games,
- According to NPD data, since November, Xbox 360 3rd party titles have cracked the top ten overall best selling games list 16 times. Over the same period, not a single third party title for the Wii or the PS3 made the top ten overall list.
- Xbox LIVE members have spent more than 2.9 billion hours playing games on Xbox LIVE with their friends around the world. That is equal to 121 million days or more than 332,000 years of gaming.
- To date, Xbox 360 owners have unlocked more than 466 million Achievements. All of those unlocked Achievements have created a total combined Gamerscore of more than 11 billion.
- There have been 2 billion game sessions hosted since the launch of Xbox 360, with more than 4.3 million hosted each day.
- More than 45 million Xbox LIVE Arcade games have been downloaded since launch; everything from the arcade games of our youth to the best in new, original titles.
- Xbox LIVE Arcade has been a huge hit on Xbox 360, with nearly 70% of all connected consoles downloading and playing Xbox LIVE Arcade titles.
- Xbox LIVE Marketplace currently offers nearly 190 free trials and demos, giving owners more free playable content than any other console.

Entertainment
-Xbox 360 continues to lead with the largest library of on-demand high-definition movies and television in the U.S. on-demand market. Twenty-eight movie studios and TV networks continue to provide a growing catalogue of premium high- and standard-definition entertainment content that to date totals 2,350 hours.
- Xbox LIVE Marketplace is now the leading provider of on-demand high-definition content in the U.S., providing more than twice the number of hours as leading cable operators.
- Xbox LIVE Marketplace is home to a growing catalogue of more than 9,000 pieces of individual gaming and entertainment content, downloadable at the click of a button.
- Nearly 50% of Xbox LIVE members in the U.S. log into Xbox LIVE Marketplace every time they turn on their console.
- There have been 220 million downloads of gaming and entertainment content from Xbox LIVE Marketplace.

Social Networking
- Xbox LIVE is the largest social network in the living room with 2.4 million IM, text and voice messages sent over the service every day.
- In 2007, Xbox LIVE members are averaging more than one hour a day on the service engaging in a variety of activities such as playing games, watching TV shows or movies or downloading content.
- Since Xbox LIVE launched, 2 billion games sessions have been hosted on the service.
- The average Xbox LIVE Gold subscriber has 23 friends on their Xbox LIVE friends list.
- More than 1 billion cross-game invites have been sent since the launch of Xbox 360.

from Xbox 360 Fanboy

PS3 Just Getting Started…

What a week! E3 is always an exciting time of year when we can roll up our sleeves and finally show you what we have planned for the year and beyond. As I’m sure you saw, on Monday we announced we are expanding the purchase options for PS3 by adding a new PS3 model to the market in August with an 80GB HDD. We also were able to engineer some cost savings into hardware production of PS3 and lowered the purchase price of our 60GB model by $100, effective immediately. We feel that is a substantial price reduction and hope if you haven’t purchased a PS3 yet, it will encourage you to do so. You probably also heard that we introduced a new, sleeker PSP; new features for our PlayStation Home service; and, as promised: games, games and more games.

This holiday and fiscal year more than 400 games are coming to PlayStation fans in North America. There will be over 120 PS3 titles including what we’re showing here at E3: Warhawk, Lair, Heavenly Sword, Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction, Uncharted: Drake’s Fortune, The Eye of Judgment, PAIN, Echochrome, SOCOM: U.S. Navy Seals Confrontation, SingStar and many more. All of those are exclusive to the PS3, and those are the ones just from us. We also showed at our press conference today other exclusives from our third party partners, like Haze, Unreal Tournament 3 and the one you have been commenting so much about on this very blog, Metal Gear Solid 4.

In addition, the PSP will score more than 140 games and PS2 over 160 this year. And, if you didn’t get a chance to see the new Star Wars Battlefront PSP Entertainment Pack, be sure to check out the pictures I’ve included here with this post. The Darth Vader image on the back of the new white PSP is pretty cool, in my opinion.

Our goal right now is simple: to provide you with the most compelling gaming experience possible, and as we are showing here this week, we are well on the way to achieving that goal.

Right now is a good time to reflect and say thank you. Thank you for being passionate members of the video game community and part of the PlayStation family. The best is yet to come.

from PlayStation.Blog

Highlights from Microsoft's E3 2007 press conference

In case you missed anything while perusing our live coverage of the Microsoft E3 2007 press conference:

• Mass Effect coming to 360 in November
• Bomberman, Sonic, Marathon (!), many others confirmed for XBLA
• Viva Pinata: Party Animals brings minigames
• Scene It!: four hilarious controllers, one great price
• Disney movies available on Xbox 360 in HD
  
• Gears of War and Viva Pinata go to PC (video)
  
• Halo short film revealed, along with special 360 console
• Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare exclusive beta
• Demos of PGR4, Assassin's Creed, Call of Duty 4
• Trailers for Lost Odyssey, Halo 3, Resident Evil 5
• A price drop ... err ... nevermind, we didn't see that.

from Joystiq

Sega announces Vintage Game Collection for Xbox Live Arcade

More classic titles are set to join Sega's initial foray into Microsoft's Xbox Live Arcade, with Wednesday's Golden Axe and Sonic the Hedgehog joined by three more Genesis titles under the "Vintage Game Collection" banner. Sega of America and Sega Europe have revealed that the rest of the retro lineup will be joined by:

• Streets of Rage 2 -- Wander the angry streets and defend yourself from generic thugs using whatever means necessary. Pleasingly, the means usually comes in the form of a large pipe.
  
• Ecco the Dolphin -- Explore the oceans and rescue your fishy friends in this completely enchanting and non-sinister game. Oh, and remember to go up for air occasionally... or you'll die an agonizing death.
  
• Sonic the Hedgehog 2 -- The world's fastest and most relevant hedgehog heads off on one of his best adventures with Tails "Miles" Prower in tow. We still giggle about the "miles per hour" bit.
  

All Sega Vintage Collection titles are priced at 400 MS Points ($5), with the above three games slated to hit Xbox Live Arcade "shortly."

from Joystiq

Samsung to introduce its third-gen Blu-ray player August 31

VideoBusiness has got a few more details on what to expect from Samsung's third generation Blu-ray player, the BD-P1400. Look for the player to make its debut on August 31 at the 2007 IFA in Berlin, with support for Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby True HD and DTS-HD audio, as well as a built in Ethernet port. Whether it will meet the new standards for Blu-ray players released after October remains unanswered, as well as how much it will cost. With Sony's BDP-S300 and recently price-reduced PlayStation 3 both already on the market at $499, we'll soon see how much lower prices can get.

from Engadget HD

Samsung ships the 2007 models in its 76, 87 and 89 series DLPs

All those DLP sets from Samsung we saw at CES are finally hitting store shelves. In addition to 1080p across the board in the 76, 87 and 89 series sets, all of the displays are 3D-ready (with a $100 add-on kit that includes the necessary LCD glasses) and feature 10,000:1 contrast ratios and three HDMI plugs apiece. Price breakdown is after the break.


76 Series

50-inch - $1,899
56-inch - $2,199
61-inch - $2,599

87 Series (adds CinemaSmooth LED Light Engine)

50-inch - $2,299
56-inch - $2,599
61-inch - $2,999

89 Series (adds Bluetooth headphone capability)

50-inch - $2,499
56-inch - $2,799
61-inch - $3,199

from Engadget HD

Samsung announces 94 series 1080p plasma HDTVs with WiFi

Samsung is also finally ready to loose its 94 series plasmas (and a 58-inch version of its 84 series) today, featuring 1080p displays, 15,000:1 contrast ratio, 3 CEC HDMI ports, Ultra FilterBright light diffusion, 18-bit color processing, ATSC / clear QAM tuners, and USB. The 94 series packs one extra special little thing: 802.11n WiFi for streaming up to 1080i video to the set (no mention of DLNA or any other standards, cross your fingers). The 50 and 58-inch 94 series will run you $3600 and $5300 fourth quarter this year; the new 58-inch 84-series will land for $4700 this September.

from Engadget HD

Samsung's BD-P2400 and BD-P1400 third-gen Blu-ray players

Samsung has dropped its "Holidays in July" bomb on the good people of Earth, and within that treasure trove are a few little gems, like the company's new Blu-ray duo, the BD-P2400, and kid sister BD-P1400. Both players feature Blu-ray playback at native HD resolution (1080p / 1080i / 720p), handle HD video at 1920 x 1080, and up-convert standard DVDs to 1080p via HDMI. The BD-P2400 also utilizes Samsung's "Hollywood Quality Video", which rocks some proprietary de-interlacing that makes Pirates of the Caribbean look really, really real. The player's audio does the regular rounds with stereo and 5.1, coaxial and optical digital outs, and Dolby Digital Plus with DTS HD and MP3 playback.; for video you get HDMI, component, S-Video and composite outs. The BD-P2400 will be available in October for $649, and the BD-P1400 in September for $549.

from Engadget HD

Samsung announces 71, 81 series 1080p LCD HDTVs

Samsung's finally launching its 71 and 81 series 1080p LCD HDTVs -- let's cut to the chase. The 71 series features Auto Motion Plus (i.e. 120Hz) 25,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio, CCFL backlight, three HDMI 1.3 ports, CEC HDMI, USB, ATSC / clear QAM tuner, 8ms response time, and lands next month in 40, 46, and 52-inch sizes (for $2700, $3400, and $4400).

The 81 series ups the ante with an LED backlight, bumping the contrast ratio to a measly 100,000:1, and also comes with 10-bit processing, 8ms response time, an ATSC / clear QAM tuner, CEC HDMI, USB, and also lands in August in 40, 46, 52, and 57-inch sizes( for $3000, $4000, $5000, and $7000, respectively).

from Engadget HD

Toshiba HD DVD Players Have 71% Retail Market Share in Europe

By Alex Armitage July 12 (Bloomberg) -- Toshiba Corp.'s video players with the HD DVD high-definition standard have a 71 percent market share in retail sales in six European countries, Toshiba said, citing market researcher GFK Group. The figure includes those players sold to consumers through retail stores from January 2006 through May 2007 in the U.K., Germany, France, Italy, Spain and Switzerland, Olivier Van Wynendaele, a general manager for Tokyo-based Toshiba in Europe, said in an interview yesterday. He declined to give the number of units sold. The market share may give Toshiba an advantage over rival Sony Corp., which is vying for consumer support for its competing Blu-ray high-definition format. HD DVD has support from Microsoft Corp., Intel Corp. and NEC Corp., while Blu-ray is backed by Samsung Group and Matsushita Electric Industrial Co. There are currently 130 HD DVD film titles available in Europe, 230 in the U.S. and 100 in Japan, Van Wynendaele said. By the end of the year, there will be 1,000 titles available. While the data was only available for six countries, Toshiba is selling its product in 29 countries in Europe. Link to Story

Special Halo 3 Xbox 360 console

Yesterday, rumors were flying around the internet that a new gray Xbox 360 would be revealed. Well, we were close as a new Xbox 360 was shown, but it wasn't gray. Microsoft just announced that they'll be releasing a special edition Halo 3 Xbox 360 sometime this Fall. This army green Halo 3 360 is accented by yellow highlights (think Halo 3 wireless headset color scheme) and includes a matching green 20GB HDD, wired headset, and wireless controller. The package will also include a play and charge kit and limited edition theme and gamer picture set. But what's most interesting is that the console WILL include an HDMI port on the back. So, it's kind of an Xbox 360 Elite/Premium hybrid where you only get a Premium style 20GB HDD, but you also get Elite style HDMI connectivity with only component cables included. Again, Microsoft did not set a firm release date or pricing for the new console.

Halo 3 Xbox 360 bundle contents recapped after the break including a bigger photo of this army green wonder. Oh yeah, Halo 3 game sold separately.

Halo 3 Xbox 360 Bundle Contents
- Halo 3 Special Edition Console
- Halo 3 Special Edition Wireless Controller
- Halo 3 Special Edition 20GB Hard Drive
- Halo 3 Special Edition Wired Headset
- Halo 3 Special Edition Gamer Pics and Theme (Exclusive download via Xbox LIVE)
- Component HD AV Cable
- Ethernet Cable
- HDMI Port
- Play & Charge Kit
- Xbox LIVE Silver Membership
- One-month Lbox LIVE Gold Membership
- Halo 3 game not included-sold separately

from Xbox 360 Fanboy

Disney now on Video Marketplace

In a move that will add to the incredible popularity of Xbox LIVE Marketplace, Microsoft announced an agreement with Disney-ABC Domestic Television to make high-definition and standard definition feature films from Walt Disney Pictures, Touchstone Pictures, Miramax Films, and Hollywood Pictures available for rent on demand to members of Xbox LIVE in the U.S. A growing catalogue of current and library titles will be available this July with more blockbusters to come.

Microsoft also announced the highly anticipated rollout of the high-definition video store on Xbox LIVE Marketplace for customers around the globe. Microsoft will begin bringing content to living rooms in Europe and Canada by the end of this year. Currently offering more than 2,350 hours of premium entertainment content from 28 networks and studios, and nearly 500 hours of HD content alone, this puts the U.S. on-demand, high-definition library for Xbox 360 at more than twice the size of the nearest cable provider.

Here is a list of the Disney content that went live on the video marketplace earlier tonight:

Alice In Wonderland
Armageddon
Atlantis: The Lost Empire
Bad Company
Bringing Down The House
Cold Creek Manor
Coyote Ugly
Déjà Vu
Ghosts of the Abyss
Gone Fishin'
Grosse Pointe Blank
Hercules
Meet the Deedles
Metro
Mighty Joe Young
Moonlight Mile
Brother, Where Art Thou?
Pooh's Heffalump Movie
Prefontaine
Primeval
Sky High
Tarzan
The 13th Warrior
The Aristocats
The Brothers Grimm
The Emperor's New Groove
The Fox and the Hound 2
The Great Raid
The Hunchback of Notre Dame
The Queen
The Waterboy
Unbreakable
Valiant
Venus

E3 07 Xbox Marketplace

Remember that Major Nelson will be posting a round up of content now available on the Marketplace every day. You can access this information at the right of this blog ( Xbox Live's Major Nelson) or in their blog (www.majornelson.com)

News from Tonight's Microsoft E3 2007 Briefing

We just posted three press releases that you might be interested in:

Xbox 360 Showcases Greatest Holiday Lineup in Video Game History Headlined by Halo 3, Grand Theft Auto IV, Madden NFL 08 and Rock Band

Games for Windows Delivers New Games, New Publishers and Games for Windows — LIVE

The Walt Disney Studios to Offer Movie Rentals On Demand Through Xbox LIVE Starting Now

We held off announcing tomorrow's Xbox LIVE Arcade game for Wednesday, but in case you weren't paying attention, you can download two Sega classics (a few hours early!): Golden Axe, the classic action-adventure game with two-person multiplayer, and Sonic The Hedgehog, the classic platform game updated in HD.

Check out the list of titles we showed, that are coming up this holiday!

• “Ace Combat 6: Fires of Liberation” (NAMCO BANDAI Games).
• “Assassin’s Creed” (Ubisoft).
• “Beautiful Katamari” (NAMCO BANDAI Games).
• “BioShock” (2K Games).
• “Blue Dragon” (Mistwalker/Artoon Co. Ltd.).
• “Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare” (Activision).
• “Dance Dance Revolution UNIVERSE™ 2” (Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc.).
• “Grand Theft Auto IV” (Rockstar Games).
• “Guitar Hero III™: Legends of Rock” (RedOctane/Activision).
• “Halo 3” (Bungie Studios).
• “Madden NFL 08” (Electronic Arts Inc.).
• “Mass Effect” (BioWare Corp.).
• “Naruto: Rise of a Ninja” (Ubisoft).
• “Project Gotham Racing 4” (Bizarre Creations Ltd.).
• “Rock Band” (MTV Games).
• “Scene It? Lights, Camera, Action” (Screenlife Games/WXP).
• “Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell Conviction” (Ubisoft).
• “Virtua Fighter™ 5” (SEGA).
• “Viva Piñata^®: Party Animals” (Krome Studios Pty. Ltd.).

On top of that, we announced an agreement with Disney-ABC Domestic Television to make high definition and standard definition feature films from Walt Disney Pictures, Touchstone Pictures, Miramax Films, and Hollywood Pictures available for rent on demand to members of Xbox LIVE in the U.S. We also announced the rollout of the high-definition video store on Xbox LIVE Marketplace for customers around the globe, and pinpointed a release date for Europe and Canada (by the end of this year).

There will be a bunch of Xbox LIVE Arcade titles coming summer, including these:

• “Bomberman Live” from Hudson Entertainment
• “Golden Axe” from SEGA
• “Hexic^® 2” from Carbonated Games
• “Marathon: Durandal” from Freeverse
• “Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords” from D3Publisher of America
• “Sonic The Hedgehog” from SEGA
• “Undertow” from Chair Entertainment Group

We announced nearly 30 new Games for Windows-branded titles, which will bring the total for this holiday to more than 60. New titles announced at E3 include:

• “Age of Empires^® III: The Asian Dynasties” (Microsoft Game Studios)
• “Bee Movie™ Game” (Activison)
• “BlackSite: Area 51” (Midway Games)
• “Clive Barker’s Jericho™” (Codemasters)
• “The Club” (SEGA)
• “Company of Heroes: Opposing Fronts” (THQ)
• “Empire Earth^® 3” (Sierra Entertainment)
• “Fallout^® 3” (Bethesda Softworks^®)
• “Flight Simulator X: Acceleration” (Microsoft Game Studios)
• “Gears of War” (Microsoft Game Studios)
• “Hour of Victory” (Midway Games)
• “John Woo Presents Stranglehold” (Midway Games)
• “Juiced 2: Hot Import Nights” (THQ)
• “Kane & Lynch: Dead Men” (Eidos)
• “Nancy Drew^®: Legend of Crystal Skull” (Her Interactive Inc.)
• “Operation Flashpoint™ 2” (Codemasters)
• “Rise of the Argonauts” (Codemasters)
• “Rogue Warrior” (Bethesda Softworks)
• “SEGA Rally Revo” (SEGA)
• “Sid Meier’s Civilization IV^®: Beyond the Sword^TM” (2K Games)
• “Sid Meier’s Civilization IV: Gold Edition” (2K Games)
• “Spider-Man™: Friend or Foe” (Activision)
• “Star Wars^® Empire at War^®: Gold Pack” (LucasArts)
• “The Witcher” (Atari)
• “Thrillville™: Off the Rails™” (LucasArts)
• “Turning Point™: Fall of Liberty” (Codemasters)
• “Universe at War: Earth Assault™” (SEGA)
• “Viva Piñata” (Microsoft Game Studios)
• “Zoo Tycoon^® 2: Extinct Animals” (Microsoft Game Studios)

In addition, Eidos, SEGA and THQ announced their intention to join Microsoft Game Studios in supporting the Games for Windows — LIVE online service for Windows XP and Windows Vista. The first wave of titles to support the service includes the following:

• “The Club” (SEGA)
• “Gears of War” (Microsoft Game Studios)
• “Juiced 2: Hot Import Nights” (THQ)
• “Kane & Lynch: Dead Men” (Eidos)
• “Universe at War: Earth Assault” (SEGA)
• “Viva Piñata” (Microsoft Game Studios)

“Gears of War” will have five new campaign chapters, a new multiplayer mode and a new game editor only available for Windows. “Gears of War” will also take advantage of DirectX^® 10 graphics technology, which is only available on Windows Vista.

Also today, Epic Games unveiled the addition of Games for Windows – LIVE integration to the award winning Unreal^® Engine 3.

New hardware is coming too.

• The Xbox 360 Halo 3 Special Edition Console features an authentic Spartan green and gold finish and comes with matching Xbox 360 Wireless Controller, 20GB Hard Drive, Headset, Play & Charge Kit, and exclusive “Halo 3” Gamer Pics and Theme, available in September.
• The Xbox 360 Messenger Kit includes a Chatpad and Xbox 360 Headset, and will be available beginning Sept. 6. ERP $29.99 (U.S.).
• New Xbox 360 Wireless Controllers will be available in new colors, pink, dark blue and light blue, in October. ERP $49.99 (U.S.).

from Gamerscore Blog

GTA IV episodic content exclusive to the 360

What's that smell? It's the unmistakable aroma of exclusive content coming to the 360 ... lovely. Yesterday, gameindustry.biz confirmed with a Take-Two representative that Grand Theft Auto IV will feature episodic content that will be exclusive to the Xbox 360 platform. Yup, you'll only be able to get such episodic content on your lovely white box and no other console. Life is great isn't it? No other details were confirmed about such content other than its exclusivity.

GTA IV is huge game and if the 360 version is going to get content that no other version on other consoles has, it's a big deal. Now we just hope that such episodic content doesn't cost us anything or, if it does, it doesn't break the bank. Our fingers are crossed.

from Xbox 360 Fanboy

McFarlane Toys To Product Halo Figures

from Team Xbox

McFarlane Toys has announced a licensing agreement with Microsoft to produce action figures based on the hit video game series Halo.

Warner's '300' to sport bonus features on HD DVD, not Blu-ray

Apparently, Warner Home Video has no problem doling out an HD DVD version of 300 that outshines the Blu-ray rendition, as that's exactly what will happen when it launches on July 31st. The $39.99 HD DVD / DVD combo disc will feature a bluescreen picture-in-picture version of the film with "pre-CGI" clips alongside the finished product, an exclusive game titled Vengeance and Valor, web-enabled downloads, and a nifty application that allows you to assemble your favorite clips and "create your own montage." These very features, however, are glaringly absent from the Blu-ray release, which sports a far thinner list of extras for a slightly lower price ($34.99). It's no secret that interactive features on high-definition flicks have been sorely missing on the whole, but giving preferential treatment to one format via on-disc extras is an interesting approach to differentiation.

from Engadget HD

Things are looking up for HD DVD

Toshiba now has 70% of the HD set top market Toshiba moved 70K players during their $100 off promo $100 off is now permanent bringing MSRP down to $299 on the A2. MS and Tosh recently showed off next gen capabilities of HD DVD Several places picking up the story about what 300 on BD can't do that the HD DVD can do.

HD DVD and Blu-ray releases on July 10th, 2007

July, the month of catalog titles continues for both formats. This week, HD DVD continues to make up loss ground on Blu-ray with four new titles to Blu-ray's nada. This is the first in some time that Blu-ray hasn't even bothered to release even one catalog title, they are making it even easier for HD DVD to catch up. Looking ahead, July pretty much keeps up this theme, as we all wait for 300 to come at the end of the month.

HD DVD 245 vs Blu-ray 260.

Blu-ray

• Zilch

HD DVD

• Billy Madison (Universal)
• Dante's Peak (Universal)
• The War (Universal)
• The Wedding Date (Universal)

from Engadget HD

HD DVD and Blu-ray releases on July 3rd, 2007

HD DVD gets Blood Diamond this week and with web enabled content, so if you haven't already, go download the latest firmware update. It was released on Blu-ray last month sans the new interactive content. The rest of the titles are solid catalog titles, as most titles this month are. While the total keeps rising for both formats, we can't help but wonder why each week there are so many more DVDs released than both formats combined.

HD DVD 241 vs Blu-ray 260.

Blu-ray

• Flatliners (Sony)
• The Patriot (Extended Cut) (Sony)
• The Untouchables (Paramount)
• The Warriors: Ultimate Director's Cut (Paramount)

HD DVD

• Blood Diamond (Warner)
• The Untouchables (Paramount)
• The Warriors: Ultimate Director's Cut (Paramount)

from Engadget HD

Syntax-Brillian goes big with 65-inch 1080p Olevia 665i LCD

Syntax-Brillian is showing off its first HDTV above 50-inches in the U.S. at Infocomm this week, the 65-inch, 1080p Olevia 665i. This LCD is aimed at the pro AV and high end home theater market, and is the first "large area display" to include the Silicon Optix Realta HQV scaler. That, along with Olevia's Big Picture technology to reduce overscan should ensure you get every pixel expected from HD and non-HD sources. Also included for the $9,999 MSRP are two sets each of HDMI and component inputs, RS232 control, removable speakers, and optional wall mount. No word on what, if any, tuners are a part of the package, but we're sure the FCC will be taking a look before this HDTV goes on sale in October.

from Engadget

Samsung launches new 8G plant, cheap 52-inch LCDs on the way?

Fans of cutting edge electronics are usually used to dealing with delays, disappointments and broken promises, but this time it looks like Sony and Samsung are delivering their latest LCD plant well ahead of schedule. The eighth generation facility designed to mass produce the 52-inch HDTVs we love so much should be able to produce as many as 50,000 panels per month starting in July. Samsung is still predicting steep drops in the price of LCDs, with the president seeing the cost of the 52-inch panel lowered to $1,000 by the end of next year.

from Engadget HD

Future PS3 firmware updates could improve upscaling 30% to 40% [Update]

If you're already impressed by the PS3's upscaling of older PlayStation games and DVD movies, wait until you see what Sony engineers have in store for future updates. SCE chief technology officer Kawanishi and AV manager Kanehide were talking about the future of the PS3's firmware updates when a very interesting claim was made. "We have gotten feedback from critics regarding several failure patters for upconverting, but we are getting closer to the goal. I think we can improve another 30 to 40%," said Kawanishi. He is talking about the upscaling performance, as in, 30 - 40% better than what was given during firmware 1.80. The dynamic duo also believe they can give this performance boost without additional fan noise, further believing in a future, fanless PS3 console. Very cool indeed.

Toshiba announces new Interactive capabilites for HD-DVD and 24p support coming Sept!

HD DVD Delivers Advanced Content and Interactivity by Offering Exclusive Web-Enabled Capabilities; Momentum for HD DVD continues to grow as player sales reach new heights and Toshiba captures 70 percent share of high definition set-top player market

WAYNE, N.J., June 29 /PRNewswire/ -- Today at its summer press event, Toshiba America Consumer Products, L.L.C. ("Toshiba") announced that HD DVD is bringing a whole new world of high definition entertainment to the hands of consumers. Delivering on the promise to provide advanced content and interactivity, new HD DVD titles with web-enabled network capabilities now allow consumers to easily access additional content and bonus features, as available, to enjoy their favorite HD DVD movies like never before. Current users of Toshiba HD DVD players can enjoy the web-enabled network capabilities by updating to the latest HD DVD player firmware, now available from Toshiba.


Since the launch of HD DVD, all of Toshiba's players have offered advanced interactive functionality including picture-in-picture video and audio commentary, which have already been available on many HD DVD movies. Now Toshiba takes interactivity to the next level. The company's latest firmware update supports improved network connectivity for downloading web-enabled network content and is another example of the company's commitment toward achieving the ultimate home entertainment experience. No other high definition home entertainment format currently matches the features offered by Toshiba and the HD DVD format.


"Through web-enabled network connectivity, HD DVD is unlocking the door to an entirely new world of entertainment and once again achieving another milestone in next generation DVD," said Jodi Sally, Vice President of Marketing, Toshiba's Digital A/V Group. "With HD DVD, studios have the ability to develop new and unique content for movie fans, enabling consumers to have an entirely new way to access entertainment and customize their home movie experience that is currently not available with any other format."

Toshiba HD DVD Players' Web-Enabled Network Capabilities

Using the Ethernet ports found on all Toshiba HD DVD players, and the currently available firmware update, once connected to the network, users can download bonus features, as available, from a movie studio's server. This data is then saved in the player's persistent storage and can be accessed by the user. In addition to downloading new bonus features, some HD DVD discs may even include locked prerecorded content which can be unlocked with a downloadable key from the studio's online server.


In addition to downloading content, HD DVD users also have the ability to upload content and interact with content providers. For example, with the award winning title, "Blood Diamond" from Warner Home Video, users can participate in interactive polls. After providing feedback, results are delivered back to users via the HD DVD player.


Web-enabled network content became available on June 26 with the launch of Bandai Visual's anime title "Freedom" volume 1. This title is the first HD DVD anime title available in the United States, the first web-enabled network content disc and the first "twin format" disc (featuring both HD DVD and DVD on one side of the disc).


"While others may talk about interactivity, HD DVD has proven time and time again that it offers true interactive features and capabilities for consumers which can make the enjoyment of movies a new experience every time they're viewed," commented Sally.

Toshiba Announces 24p Output

Coming in early September, Toshiba will add an enhanced performance function to its HD-XA2 and HD-A20 HD DVD players by offering the capability for users to update the firmware of their players allowing playback of film content in 1080p/24 frames per second, or 24p. Movie films are traditionally captured at 24 frames per second and Toshiba's HD DVD players will be able to maintain this frame rate allowing consumers to enjoy movies in their native form.


Mandatory to the HD DVD format, every Toshiba player is equipped with an Ethernet port. In addition to the capability to access web enabled content, this also allows HD DVD owners to conveniently update the firmware of their players with new features and performance improvements.

Movie Aficionados Adopt HD DVD as the Next High Definition Format of Choice - The Numbers Speak for Themselves

Responding to recent promotions as well as the industry growth of HDTV, the market adoption of HD DVD increased significantly in the past 2 months garnering Toshiba with approximately 70 percent share of all high definition set-top players, both HD DVD and Blu-ray, in both April and May according to NPD. "These numbers prove once again that HD DVD is the high definition format of choice," commented Sally.


Effective July 1st the pricing levels available during the May and June promotions will become standard MSRPs, making the HD-A2 available for an every day price of $299.99 and the HD-A20 for $399.99. The top of the line HD-XA2 continues at $799.99 (MSRP).


Important Notes:

HD DVD with high-definition content required for HD viewing. DVD with standard definition content will upconvert to near HD quality. Viewing high- definition content and up-converting DVD content may require an HDCP capable DVI or HDMI input on your display device. Firmware update may be required for some interactive features depending on content, which may also require an always-on broadband internet connection. Some features may require additional bandwidth. To take advantage of the web-enabled network content, downloading and installing the latest firmware update (ver.2.2 for HD DVD player models HD-XA1, HD-A1, and HD-D1; and ver.2.0 for HD DVD player models HD-XA2, HD-A2, HD-A2W, HD-D2, HD-A2C, and HD-A20) is required. Web-enabled features will require an always on broadband connection along with specific movie titles that include this form of content. MP3/WMA audio files not supported. Some current DVDs and CDs may not be compatible. Some Combo Discs and Twin Format Discs may not be compatible. HDMI audio support for PCM only. For 24p output, content that was created in 1080p/24 frames/sec is required. Viewing 24p output requires an HD display capable of accepting a 1080p/24Hz signal. Because HD DVD is a new format that makes use of new technologies, certain disc, digital connection and other compatibility and/or performance issues are possible. This may, in rare cases, include disc freezing while accessing certain disc features or functions, or certain parts of the disc not playing back or operating as fully intended. If you experience such issues, please refer to the FAQ sections of TOSHIBAHDDVD.COM or Toshiba | Consumer Electronics & Digital Home Entertainment Products for information on possible work-around solutions or the availability of firmware updates that may resolve your problem, or contact Toshiba Customer Solutions. Some features subject to delayed availability. While Toshiba has made every effort at the time of publication to ensure the accuracy of the information provided herein, product specifications, configurations, system/component/options availability are all subject to change without notice. For additional information on Toshiba HD DVD players, please visit HD DVD Product Information and News : Toshiba

About Toshiba America Consumer Products, L.L.C.

Toshiba America Consumer Products, L.L.C. is owned by Toshiba America, Inc., a subsidiary of Toshiba Corporation, a world leader in high technology products with subsidiaries worldwide. Toshiba is a pioneer in HD DVD, DVD and DVD Recorder technology and a leading manufacturer of a full line of home entertainment products, including flat panel TV, combination products and portable devices. Toshiba America Consumer Products, L.L.C. is headquartered in Wayne, New Jersey. For additional information, please visit Toshiba | Consumer Electronics & Digital Home Entertainment Products .

HDMI, the HDMI logo, and High-Definition Multimedia Interface are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing, LLC.

HD DVD and DVD are trademarks of DVD Format/Logo Licensing Corporation.

Following Strong Spring Sales, Toshiba Announces Availability of Its Largest Ever REG

Toshiba increases market share by 90 percent in 32-42 inch LCD screen sizes and looks to continue this strong growth with new larger model introductions
WAYNE, N.J., June 29 /PRNewswire/ -- Today at its summer press event in New York City, Toshiba America Consumer Products, L.L.C. ("Toshiba") announced the availability of its 46", 47" and 52" REGZA LCD TVs as well as the upcoming availability of its largest ever LCD TV, a 57" Cinema Series(R) model. The availability of these larger TVs comes at an outstanding time for the company, as according to The NPD Group's retail tracking service TV data, which includes combos, Toshiba has nearly doubled its market share in the 32" to 42" LCD category in April and May 2007.


"The feedback on our new REGZA LCD line-up has been exceptional, and our market performance has been astounding," said Scott Ramirez, Vice President of Marketing. "We listened to the voice of our customers, made quality products that are market right, and virtually doubled our 32" to 42" LCD market share. We now start shipping our larger 46" to 57" models, including our Cinema Series models with the advanced ClearFrame 120 Hz Anti-Blur System, and are confident that we will continue the same level of success. Consumers are responding to the quality and design of REGZA, but more importantly, they are proving that Toshiba is a market leader in flat panel TV."


NPD's data for April and May shows that Toshiba's LCD market share in the key 32" to 42" screen size range has grown by 90 percent to 10.8 percent market share, making Toshiba #3 for 32" to 42" LCDs, including combos. In fact, Toshiba's 40" to 42" LCD market share has grown to 12.7 percent, and the company's 37" LCD market share has grown to 13.2 percent.


With the new model additions, Toshiba REGZA models will now be available in a wide range of screen sizes including 26", 32", 37", 42", 46/7", 52" and 57" (diagonally measured). REGZA televisions also come in a variety of series including: the HL67 HD series, LV67 LCDVD(R) series, HL167 1080p Full HD series and LX177 Cinema Series. As a result of this fully comprehensive line, there is a REGZA television to fit the need of virtually every consumer, every room and every application, helping to ensure the continued market share growth of the REGZA line.


The success of the 2007 REGZA line can be attributed to dramatic improvements in picture quality, connectivity and cosmetic design. All REGZA models incorporate key Toshiba technology including PixelPure3G(TM) 14 bit internal digital video processing for accurate 12 bit output and DynaLight(TM) dynamic backlight, and feature beautiful high-gloss black cabinetry (differentiated by series) with Toshiba's SoundStrip(TM) speaker system. The 1080p Full HD REGZA series adds additional features such as ColorBurst(TM) wide color gamut CCFL, and CE-Link HDMI CEC control. At the top of the line are the Cinema Series REGZA models, which incorporate cutting-edge technology such as the ClearFrame(TM) 120 Hz anti-blur system and Deep Color.


A standard LCD TV typically has a frame rate of 60 frames per second, or 60Hz. To avoid possible motion blur with fast motion video, ClearFrame doubles that frame rate to 120 frames per second, or 120 Hz. While there are many possible methods for creating the additional 60 frames, ClearFrame utilizes superior Motion Vector Frame Interpolation (MVFI) technology. MVFI analyzes Frame A and Frame B and creates a new Frame A+B. By evaluating the speed and direction of multiple picture elements within the frames, this advanced system virtually eliminates motion blur without decreasing image brightness or adding flicker.


PixelPure3G, Toshiba's 3rd Generation digital video processor, runs at a fast 333 MHz, with high 14 bit internal digital video processing for accurate 12 bit output. This system is capable of producing an amazing 4,096 levels of gradation (16 times greater than a standard 8 bit processor) for a smooth natural picture without image banding. PixelPure continuously monitors the incoming video signal, adjusting multiple picture quality parameters including real speed progressive scanning, dynamic gamma, dynamic MPEG noise reduction and now, dynamic back-light control. Superior processing creates a superior picture, and PixelPure 3G creates incredibly deep, vibrant, sharp and natural images.


DynaLight utilizes advanced PixelPure histogram image processing to monitor the brightness level of each video frame and automatically adjusts the backlight intensity based on the image content. Precise signal analysis allows for 256 levels of backlight control, creating seamless transitions and a Dynamic Contrast that is up to 5X that of the original panel contrast. The result is a considerably deeper black level for increased detail and depth.


ColorBurst significantly increases the LCD color space to reproduce 90+ percent of the NTSC Color Gamut. By utilizing proprietary image processing and color control algorithms, ColorBurst expands the number of available colors and improves the color accuracy. This significantly improves both color purity and color saturation.


CE-Link (HDMI CEC) allows two-way control between the TV and applicable source devices through an HDMI cable. The TV remote can be used to control the source device, or the source device's remote can be used to control the TV, allowing for simplified system operation, even when the source devices are not in sight. Unlike some manufacturers, Toshiba incorporates CE-Link into all three HDMI digital inputs, allowing customers to create an "in-room network" with CEC enabled devices such as a PC, DVD Player and A/V Receiver.


The momentum Toshiba has experienced around REGZA directly relates to the industry-leading technology, beautiful design and outstanding viewing experience the line provides. With the introduction of larger REGZA models packed with even more technology features, Toshiba expects to continue its strong growth and solidify its position as a leader in flat panel TV. For individuals interested in learning more about Toshiba REGZA televisions, please visit REGZALCDTV.COM .


REGZA is The One To Watch!

Expected Pricing and Availability

REGZA HD

26HL67 ($799.99, Available Now)

32HL67U ($999.99, Available Now)

37HL67U ($1,199.99, Available Now)

42HL67 ($1,399.99, Available Now)

REGZA LCDVD

26LV67U ($899.99, Available Now)

32LV67U ($1,099.99, Available Now)

REGZA 1080p Full HD

42HL167 ($1,799.99, Available Now)

47HL167 ($2,499.99, Available Now)

52HL167 ($3,499.99, June 2007)

Cinema Series REGZA

42LX177 ($2,299.99, June 2007)

46LX177 ($2,999.99, June 2007)

52LX177 ($3,999.99, June 2007)

57LX177 (TBD, July 2007)


About Toshiba America Consumer Products, L.L.C.

Toshiba America Consumer Products, L.L.C. is owned by Toshiba America, Inc., a subsidiary of Toshiba Corporation, a world leader in high technology products with subsidiaries worldwide. Toshiba is a pioneer in HD DVD, DVD and DVD Recorder technology and a leading manufacturer of a full line of home entertainment products, including flat panel TV, combination products and portable devices. Toshiba America Consumer Products, L.L.C. is headquartered in Wayne, New Jersey. For additional information please visit Toshiba | Consumer Electronics & Digital Home Entertainment Products .

HDMI, the HDMI logo and High-Definition Multimedia Interface are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing, L.L.C.

All others are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.

SOURCE Toshiba America Consumer Products, L.L.C

BD+ DRM is now available for Blu-ray

Some people still haven't figured out that DRM doesn't work, and in yet another attempt to "enable content" the Blu-ray Disc Association (BDA) is proud to announce that BD+ is available. The recent exploits in AACS have been rumored to slow down the release schedule for Blu-ray titles from FOX and Disney and many believe this is because they've been waiting for BD+, -- an additional optional layer of DRM available to Blu-ray. This new code will run in a virtual machine while the disc is in use and can do just about whatever it deems necessary to validate that your player is secure before allowing the movie to be played. What BD+ cannot do is modify your player, so once the disc is ejected, the process is gone.

from Engadget HD