And so the HD DVD-Blu-Ray battle ensues. Next to the console wars (which, thank god, has been dead for quite some time now), this is perhaps the hottest debate-inducing battle humanity has ever known. Yeah okay, I exaggerate. But you got to admit there have been really heated discussions over which format is better.

Now wee hate to fan the flame, but with this recent news about Toshiba's plans to launch a 51GB HD-DVD disc, eyebrows are once again being raised. Why? Well for those not in the know, Blu-ray has had the upper end on the format war in terms of storage capacity (50GB), being able to store up to 50GB of data...up until now that is.

According to a TGDaily report, Toshiba has successfully created a triple-layer HD-DVD disc that can hold up to 51 GB worth of data and has submitted their brainchild for regulatory approval. This is huge news for avid HD DVD users because HD DVDs were only previously available in 15 GB and 30 GB capacities.

HOWEVER, as to whether the creation of this third layer is feasible in terms of mass production still remains a big question. Not only would this mean higher production costs, it would also entail looonger periods for production. Consumers who refuse to give in to the format dichotomy opt to get the combo drive players, but sales haven't been skyrocketing due to high selling prices.

Media reports say that Toshiba is introduce this new format to the market before the year ends.

- Source: [Gadgets QJ.net]