Why is DTS usually a firmware update

[sokrman14]

I put a few searches in for this thread, but couldnt find one. Why is it that DTS HDMA and HR are usually done via firmware updates, and dont come already installed on players. All of the pioneers, the PS3, early sony's and samsungs all had this problem, and there are probably more. Whats the deal? Anyone know?

[kingofgrills]

My only guess would be that Dolby got the upper hand by having their codec finalized and available for implementation sooner than DTS. I also suspect that Dolby has more resources available to work with engineers during the implementation process. The same thing happened when DVD players first appeared on the market as well.

[bootman]

Originally Posted by sokrman14

I put a few searches in for this thread, but couldnt find one. Why is it that DTS HDMA and HR are usually done via firmware updates, and dont come already installed on players. All of the pioneers, the PS3, early sony's and samsungs all had this problem, and there are probably more. Whats the deal? Anyone know?

Sometimes its licensing, sometimes it a rush to deployment.

New chipsets need to go through certifications with Dolby and DTS.
OEMs have to decide if they launch now (with some features not certified) or later after all certifications are done.
Launching later means less revenue generated by sales.

[gekke henkie]

Originally Posted by sokrman14

All of the pioneers, the PS3, early sony's and samsungs all had this problem

The OEM's are not the reason for causing the problem, it's DTS's @#£$&^ certification 'process' / lack of resources causing us (and the OEM's) these headaches. It's a typical example of nice marketing and front-office work, lack of back-office management, and don't even start thinking about aftersales/service! (just my not-so-humble opinion, obviously).

But hey, what can the OEM's do? They can't release a player without DTS, can they? Just bow and live with it (DTS probably covers their a$$ pretty well in their agreements for any 'delays')