Commenting on recent reports on Next Generation DVD Format unification possibilities, Toshiba does not show its cards but seriously considers the HD DVD - BluRay unification as an option.

The following is Toshiba's comment on the report:

"Toshiba believes a single format for next generation DVD is most beneficial for consumers, and we are actively participating in talks towards format unification. At this point however, nothing has been decided, and absolutely no decision has been made for unification on any basis. The indication that a unification agreement on the basis of a 0.1mm disc system is imminent, unfounded and erroneous. Given this, Toshiba does not intend to make any proposal on unification to the members of the HD DVD Promotion Group".

"We recognize that the key factors for a unified format are large capacity, reasonable cost, and backward compatibility with DVD that maximizes consumer benefit".

Current plans of Toshiba include the presentation of a new higher capacity HD DVD-ROM disc at Media-Tech Expo 2005 in Las Vegas, USA. Toshiba sees that the need for higher capacities cannot be neglected.

On the other hand, Toshiba will continue to be engaged in the dialogue on format unification.