Panasonic introduced what it says is the world's first portable Blu-ray Disc player during the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) currently underway in Las Vegas.
The Panasonic DMP-B15 has an 8.9-inch screen (1024 x 600 resolution), BD-Live supported, SD card slot, and has around three hours of total battery life. It has a built-in HDMI port so it can be used as a standalone Blu-ray player, and has support for Amazon Video on Demand, YouTube, and Hulu.
The device will easily fit into a backpack or purse, and appears to be about the same size as a hardcover book.
The price has not been released, but both analysts and journalists at CES expect it to be a pricey gadget. Panasonic hopes to begin shipping the DMP-B15 this May.
When asked about the technology, a Panasonic spokesperson said it's ideal for owners who travel and want to watch high-definition content while on the road. It's small enough to make it ideal for people who fly and want to watch a movie on the plane.
At first glance, it does look like a solid device that I wouldn't mind one day owning -- but after the price tag drops after its release. I'm also not entirely sold on watching an 8.9-inch screen for a long time, despite the fact that it's 1080p HD.
Reactions: 167
Forumposts: 0
Karma: 3340 , Fri 9 Jan 2009 15:32
If the screen resolution is 1024 x 600, then this is not a 1080p (1920×1080) display. Although, I bet it can output video to a 1080p capable display using the HDMI output port.
Reactions: 1742
Forumposts: 1678
Karma: 51620 , Fri 9 Jan 2009 16:08
Looks like they must be using the same screens as the little netbooks, as it matches the size and resolution. If so, the quality of the display will be good. It seems odd that they did not go with the 10 inch though. Maybe they will come next...
3 hours battery life? LOL so you watch one movie and then you have to recharge it? how sad.
