As expected, there have been more developments in the ongoing controversy as to which next-generation optical data storage will dominate the prospective multi-billion dollar market.The industry remains split between the rival Blu-Ray Disc (BRD) and HD-DVD groups, led by Sony and Toshiba respectively. By the end of November things looked best for Sony. A milestone was passed in the form of Sony Pictures Home Entertainment's first full-length, high-definition BRD movie: Charlie's Angels Full Throttle. The disc is said to contain dynamic menus with full-resolu-tion graphics and animation plus superior audio and enhanced picture quality. Industry observers are convinced that software will play at least as important a role in deciding the contest as the hardware.There are historical precedents, particularly the battle between VHS and Betamax videotape formats.
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