Samsung postpones high-end Blu-ray player launch

Sets December for dual-format hardware debut

By Susanne Ault -- Video Business, 10/24/2007

OCT. 24 | Samsung has indefinitely benched its high-end third-generation player, the BD-P2400, in order to better focus on its other new 2007 models, according to a company representative.

At the same time, Samsung has confirmed a mid-to-late December launch of its dual-format player, the BD-UP5000, which will be compliant with new Blu-ray Disc hardware requirements by the time titles featuring advanced Blu-ray technology, such as picture-in-picture interactivity, launch next year.

Retailers have started selling Samsung’s BD-P1400, which at $499 matches the lowest priced Blu-ray set-top player available, Sony’s entry-level model.

The BD-P2400 was expected to hit retail in November for $599. With the exception of the BD-P2400 being capable of handling one more audio technology, the two models feature nearly identical specifications, including 1080p video playback and Ethernet port connection.

“Samsung assessed its product lineup, and after discussions with our channel partners, decided to focus on the BD-P1400 and the BD-UP5000 to make its next-generation offerings more efficient,” said the manufacturer in a statement. “As a result, the BD-P2400 was removed from the 2007 holiday lineup.”

The company did not specify a new target bow for the BD-P2400.

Labeled "BD Profile 1.1 Ready," the Samsung dual-format player will include the necessary internal machinery to handle titles that carry picture-in-picture interactivity. But the model will still need a firmware upgrade, which the manufacturer is promising to make available at the end of January.

As dictated by the Blu-ray Disc Assn., all Blu-ray players that launch after Oct. 31 must include enhancements not required of earlier models. The updated specifications, carrying the terms "Profile 1.1" or "Full Profile," include the ability to playback picture-in-picture, with which a separate video stream runs currently with the feature film.

Although the firmware will be available after the BDA deadline, Samsung BD-UP5000 buyers are unlikely to be concerned, as the first known Blu-ray titles to carry picture-in-picture are not streeting until next year. Examples include Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment’s The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe and National Treasure, bowing in spring and summer of 2008, respectively.

As Samsung explained, “Profile 1.1 discs are currently not available and compatibility must be fully tested before we can assure complete compliance to BD profile 1.1 requirements.”

The dual-format player will be fully certified by the HD DVD format, and at launch, will be capable of playing picture-in-picture and Web-enabled features for HD DVD titles.