Sherwood America Inc. introduces its first Blu-ray DVD player, aimed at consumers that have been waiting for affordability and optimum performance. Sherwood’s BDP-5003 offers function and features at an irresistible $299.95 price.

LiteOn has officially introduced its 6X internal Blu-ray Disc Combo drive, iHES206. The new Blu-ray Disc reader / DVD-writer provides an all-in-one solution to playback high-definition content, while maintaining the capability of archiving data onto CD and DVD.

Integra has introduced its first Blu-ray disc player, the DBS-6.9, which delivers the ultimate in high definition performance, including 1080p Deep Color capable video and bitstream output of the latest high-resolution audio codecs.

Sanyo develops a blue laser that will yield faster Blu-ray systems with high capacities.  Pioneer has already made announcements as to a 400 GB disc.  Sanyo's 100 GB capacity disc is much more attainable. The 450 milliwatts laser, the highest powered blue laser, can write and read Blu-ray data, up to four layers at speeds of up to 12x.

DivX, Inc. has announced the DivX Certification™ of three new Blu-ray player models from Pioneer (PN: BDP-LX71, BDP-LX08, BDP-51FD).  DivX® technology enables a high-quality experience for digital video and DivX Certification™ of these new Blu-ray players allows consumers to play back DivX video saved on CDs or DVDs. Pioneer’s first DivX Certified Blu-ray Disc Players, featuring high-quality image and sound, will be available across Europe, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand starting in October (BDP-LX08 to be released in Europe only).