Blu-ray

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Blu-ray disc (BD-RE)

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Blu-ray 200GB

4K Blu Ray early Best Buy release

Comparison disk storage

Blu-ray is an optical disc format designed to enable recording, rewriting, and playback of high-definition (HD) video, as well as storing large amounts of data. The format offers more than five times the storage capacity of traditional DVDs and can hold up to 25 GB on a single-layer disc and 50 GB on a dual-layer disc. This increased capacity is essential for HD video and audio, providing consumers with an enhanced viewing experience with improved picture and sound quality.

History

The Blu-ray format was developed by the Blu-ray Disc Association, a group representing makers of consumer electronics, computer hardware, and motion pictures. The format was officially announced in 2002, with the first consumer devices arriving in stores in 2006. The name "Blu-ray" refers to the blue laser used to read the disc, which allows information to be stored at a greater density than is possible with the longer-wavelength red laser used for DVDs.

Technical Specifications

Blu-ray discs are made up of several layers, including a hard-coating layer designed to protect the disc from scratches and other types of damage. The format uses a 405 nm blue-violet laser diode, differing from the 650 nm red laser used for DVDs. This shorter wavelength allows for smaller data pits and a higher capacity than DVDs, which is why Blu-ray discs can hold much more data.

Video and Audio

Blu-ray supports various video codecs, including MPEG-2, MPEG-4 AVC (H.264), and SMPTE VC-1. The format is capable of storing full HD 1080p video at high bit rates, which results in clearer, more detailed images. For audio, Blu-ray supports multiple audio formats, including Dolby Digital, DTS, and uncompressed linear PCM, providing high-quality sound to accompany the high-definition video.

Blu-ray vs. HD DVD

The introduction of Blu-ray led to a format war with HD DVD, another high-definition optical disc format. Both formats were released around the same time, but Blu-ray ultimately won out, thanks in part to its larger storage capacity and support from major film studios and technology companies. HD DVD was officially discontinued in 2008.

Future of Blu-ray

With the advent of 4K and Ultra HD Blu-ray, the Blu-ray format has evolved to meet the demands of ultra-high-definition content. Ultra HD Blu-ray discs can store up to 100 GB of data and support HDR (High Dynamic Range), providing an even better picture quality than standard Blu-ray.

Despite the rise of streaming services, Blu-ray remains popular among enthusiasts and consumers who prefer physical media for its quality and reliability. However, the format faces challenges from digital distribution, which offers convenience and accessibility.

See Also

• DVD
• Optical disc drive
• Digital distribution
• High-definition video