Blu-ray Web connection possible without disc

PHYSICAL: New technology offers studios other ways to access BD Live

By Susanne Ault -- Video Business, 9/23/2009

SEPT. 23 | PHYSICAL: Blu-ray Disc interactivity developer Related Content Database (RCDb) has created technology that enables more direct downloading to Blu-ray set-tops.

Currently, BD Live material is generally accessed through software embedded into Blu-ray discs. Users must insert BD Live-enabled discs into players to view Web-based bonus features.

With design partner Videon Central, RCDb has come up with a disc-free solution that will increase the number of ways studios can offer content to Blu-ray hardware owners. Going forward, studios could offer extra content to Blu-ray households that isn’t tied to a specific Blu-ray disc.

This technology is expected to be integrated into future Blu-ray set-tops but is not available on existing models.

“Blu-ray Disc players not only deliver the highest-quality home entertainment experience, our joint solution with Videon Central gives studios another path to the living room and a direct connection to their audience,” said Zane Vella, CEO of RCDb.

Todd Erdley, CEO of Videon Central added, “By bringing our solutions together, we deliver a compelling experience to connected Blu-ray Disc players. The partnership with RCDb enables seamless access to Internet-delivered services and content for the consumer and in turn allows the manufacturer to build best-of-breed, high value, differentiated products.”