What is going on with Panasonic, Pioneer?

[Longshot]

I'm sure this is going to rub some the wrong way but it needs to be asked IMO. There's a thread over at AVS (sorry don't know how to link) that states Panny is purposefully holding back their BD player because they intend to announce a hybrid player and possibly a HD DVD standalone by xmas. Also, that Pioneer will have an HD DVD player by next June. Pioneer announced their player last January at CES for a May delivery and it is still not out with no firm date. Panny much the same. Delays are inevitable with new technologies but isn't it a little troubling that these top companies cannot get a working unit into production and to the marketplace?

Of course the thread is fueled by that tool Oshodi but it makes one wonder. With the disastrous launch BD has had could some of the major CE companies (Panny, Denon, Marantz) and studios (Disney, MGM, Lionsgate) be on the verge of supporting HD DVD?

Those of you who know me from my history know that I fully support BD. Yes I have a Toshiba player but it is only because I love HD movies and want as much as is available. I have been waiting for the Panny but will mostlikely buy a PS3 if I'm lucky enough to get in line 24hrs. in advance.

Reports are coming back from the Tokyo game show that the PS3 is simply amazing. If this is true I don't see how Sony/BD can loose. I certainly don't understand or believe that these companies and studios are willing to jump ship before the first PS3 even hits the streets and possibly only 30,000 HD DVD players sold.

This forum has become a great alternative to AVS with reasoned, intelligent discussion. I look forward to everyone's thoughts, opinions, etc.