Toshiba has introduced the first laptop capable of playing next-generation, high-definition DVDs.

The Qosmio G35-AV650 supports the HD DVD format, which Toshiba helped develop, and also plays standard DVDs. Its dual drive can write data onto both standard DVDs and dual-layer discs, which can store twice as much information.

HD DVD is the first of two competing high-definition DVD formats to hit the market, with a standalone player and such movies as MILLION DOLLAR BABY and GOODFELLAS already out and BATMAN BEGINS slated for later in the year. Products in the rival Blu-ray format, backed by Sony Corp., will be available in a few months.

Find out more about the recent events in the HD DVD vs Blu Ray battle at http://www.vfxworld.com/?sa=adv&code=3631a5a1&atype=news&id=16927.