Business Editors/High-Tech Editors
SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 30, 2006--The overwhelming
majority (81 percent) of tech enthusiasts remain skeptical about which
next-generation DVD technology will be the market standard, according
to a recent survey by CNET (Nasdaq:CNET)(www.cnet.com) and the
Consumer Electronics Association. The study, CEA / CNET Tech First
Panel: Next-Generation DVD, gained information about early technology
adopters awareness of, and interest in, high-definition capable DVD
players as manufacturers prepare to release several players that run
on varying formats.
Although awareness of the new technology is high at 85 percent, a
number of issues are contributing to early adopters' desire to own the
new high-definition players. These include:
- The Format Wars - The overwhelming majority (81 percent) say
they are unsure of which of the available technologies will be
the market standard
- Price - Nearly three-fourths (74 percent) are concerned about
the cost of next-generation DVD players; 62 percent worry
about the cost of next-generation DVD movies
- Compatibility - More than half (55 percent) wonder if the
next-generation DVD players will be compatible with current CE
products and whether they're able to play standard DVD movies
(54 percent)
- Copyright Protection - Almost half (48 percent) are concerned
about restrictions of the new formats
Despite popular belief, the least concerning factors among tech
enthusiasts:
- Availability of DVDs - Less than one-third (30 percent) are
concerned about getting the information they want, when they
want it.
- Choice of Manufacturer - Only one out of five (20 percent) are
worried about the available manufacturers.
"The studios, manufacturers, retailers and media companies have
their own theories on how this will play out in the market," said
Claudia Haase, senior research manager at CNET. "But, at the end of
the day, the only thing that matters is the consumer. We look to our
tech enthusiasts as leaders in the industry. If they are hesitant to
adopt, it is unrealistic to expect the less tech-savvy population will
rush to market."
The CEA / CNET Tech First Panel: Next-Generation DVD (October
2006) study was completed in September 2006. It was designed and
formulated by CNET, where people go to discover the latest in tech and
consumer electronics, and CEA Market Research, the most comprehensive
source of sales data, forecasts, consumer research and historical
trends for the consumer electronics industry. Please cite any
information to the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA(R)) and CNET.
The complete study is available free to CEA member companies.
About CNET
CNET (www.cnet.com) is where people go to discover the latest in
tech and consumer electronics. Driven by a trusted voice and a
passionate community, CNET creates an open environment for people to
find and use the best products to fit their lifestyle. The powerful
combination of CNET's award-winning news, lab-tested product reviews,
safe and spyware-free downloads, and user-generated content give
people information and inspiration to live and thrive in today's
digital world.
CONTACT: CNET Networks
Jenifer Concepcion, 415-344-2441 (Media)
Jenifer.concepcion@cnet.com
Gloria Lee, 415-344-2975 (Investors)
Gloria.lee@cnet.com
SOURCE: CNET Networks
