DivX is a digital media format that has been available since 1999. Computer software for playing and converting video is available free on the Internet at DivX.com. The software also is licensed to be built into commercially available electronic devices.
The DivX format has been making inroads into the adult market. Barcelona-based Private and Chatsworth, Calif.- based JM Productions have offered downloadable videos on the DivX format since last summer, and North Las Vegas-based VCX announced the availability of almost 100 '70s Golden Age films in the new DivX Download-to-Own format last week. Online retailer HotMovies also offers DivX downloads. Standalone DVD players constitute the largest device category for DivX; the company estimates that 32 percent of all DVD player units sold worldwide support DivX video playback. DivX penetration is estimated at 90 percent for DVD players sold in some countries including France, Spain, Korea and Russia.
"This is a major milestone for our company, and we believe it represents a significant milestone for the larger digital media industry as well," Kevin Hell, acting CEO of DivX Inc. said. "In practical terms, there are now over 100 million devices sitting in the hands of consumers that can easily playback high-quality video from the PC or the Internet. These devices offer a bridge between the exploding online video space and the traditional consumer electronics industry, and we're extremely pleased that our partners continue to recognize the value of the DivX brand to global consumers. We're proud of the interoperable experience our technology enables."
The company currently is working to expand support for DivX into new product categories, including set-top boxes, high-definition devices and mobile phones, and a variety of network-connected products. For more information, visit DivX.com.
