“A data disc consists of several layers, including at least one layer conforming to a first format, and a second layer conforming to a second format,” the patent application abstract read. “The formats can include CD, DVD, HD and BD formats and the layers may be physical, logic or application layers.”
According to Barry Fox, a writer for New Scientist, the combination disc would be capable of playing any mix of formats, which would dramatically alter the playing field in the battle for next-gen format supremacy.
The application lists Wayne Smith, Alan Bell and Lewis Ostrover as the inventors of the technology.
Both Bell and Ostrover are Warner Bros. employees, according to Fox, who said that the studio will likely gain a strong power position in deciding which format wins out.
According to Fox, the new device would also be able to play standard DVDs on the reverse side of the disc. A triple-standard disc, he said, would cost more to produce, but it would be cheaper than producing three copies of a given title.
There is no word on when, or if, the technology will become commercially available.
