Samsung Blu-ray delay official

Unfortunately the bad rumors we hipped you to earlier are all too true. Samsung's BD-P1000 will not launch on May 23, but June 25. The good news, if there really is any, is that they have added a couple features to the checklist:

• 1080p upconversion of DVDs (apparently only via HDMI out)
• Support for 11 (up from 9) memory card formats, adding Mini-SD and Memory Stick Pro Duo

The official reason is to undergo further compatibility testing with Blu-ray test discs, and the price is still $999. HD-DVDs are still (probably) hitting shelves later this month, but we're not holding our breath (anymore, because the hospital said they are not resuscitating Kevin again). Hopefully this will be the last time we have to tell you when next generation DVDs aren't coming out.

[(Unverified) Posted Apr 3rd 2006 8:54PM]

How is Ben going to spin this as a positive thing? Find out on the next exciting episode of HDBeat Podcast.

[(Unverified) Posted Apr 3rd 2006 10:27PM]

No delay is good news but from my reading of the Samsung statement, they've added 1080p output via HDMI for Blu-Ray movies (which no HD DVD maker has announced yet) and, if I'm not mistaken, the built-in card reader passes through native HD resolution of digital still pictures which is similar to Roku Lab's PhotoBridge HD model that retails for $299.