With the new LightScribe Media Version 1.2 coating technology, the same black text and graphics labels available on gold-background discs can be burned onto the label-side of LightScribe-enabled CDs in five new background colors. The supported five CD background colors -- red, orange, yellow, blue and green -- have been developed through the new LightScribe Media Version 1.2 coating technology.

HP, the developer of the LighScribe technology, says that the color-background CDs will have labeling speeds and enhanced image contrast comparable to those of the current gold-background discs.

The original gold-background LightScribe CDs and DVDs are already available through most leading media brands online and in retail stores. LightScribe enabled desktops, notebooks and optical disc drives are also available through LiteOn, HP, BenQ brands. The new multi-color CDs will be available by HP, Memorex, Mitsubishi Chemicals, Phllips, CMC Magnetics and Moser Baer India. Availability is planned for early 2006.

CDs with the LightScribe Media Version 1.2 coating technology are compatible with existing LightScribe-enabled drives and labeling software after a download of an updated driver file.