Looking beyond Blu-ray...

[frenchglen]

Does anyone hate how Microsoft, no matter how evil they are, always seem to be the ones to have a secure future, have an eye on the future trends and seem to be the ones to benefit the most from them? (generalised statement of course)

I think it's basically becuse everything's becoming more "computerised" as time goes on. Computers are the most flexible, diverse and widespread part of consumer technology and it can mimic the functions of more and more "other" technologies (like playing movies)...especially with the intenet now.

I.e. downloads. I am one to firmly believe that downloads are the future. Yes, I do think people will always like physical media (something to hold in their hand and carry from one place to another)

But what I think will OUTWEIGH that, is the fact that downloads are so flexible. The problem with physical formats, is that it's a hassle to standardise, get the companies to agree on the physical technology, etc. And once it's finalised, it stays that way until a new completely different physical technology replaces it. It's also very costly.

With downloads, it's all about software and file formats, which are much easier to implment, standardise, update, etc. If they want to start soing higher reoslutions, no need for new formats, just maybe a software update and let the playback devices (TVs) evolve to handle it. The other thing is that it's instant. Straight to your TV. And assuming DRM will not be a big part of it, you'll be able to use it on many platforms.

Of course I could go on about all the other arguments for downloads but I think everyone can agree how much simpler and convenient it is, once it will happen (whereas the only arguments I ever hear defending physical media are: portability (I can imagine us carrying our media on out phones one day), current internet speeds can't handle it (one day they will) and the fact that you can "hold it in your hand" (well, MP3s are pretty popular compared to CD, aren't they? People dont mind downloads).

Having said that, don't you hate how Microsoft are the ones who seem to be going to benefit the most from this? I hope they don't get domiannce in the downloads market.

I'm really hoping that the downlaods future can be so without Microsoft being a major part of it. That would suck. I'm hoping that systems like Linux, Apple Macs, PS3, anything, can become the common centres of media systems, instead of windows computers. I hope that we will have Sony and Yamaha and Denon Network Media Players, where we used to have our DVD players.

I really hope it will be a Microsoft-less future.