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HP, the second biggest PC manufacturer in the world, has asked the Blu-ray Disc Association (BDA) to include mandatory Managed Copy and iHD as part of its format specification. Both technologies are currently supported in the competing HD-DVD format.

HP has determined that Managed Copy and iHD will address the fundamental technical needs of the PC and the digitally connected home.

Managed Copy allows consumers to make legal copies of their High Definition (HD) DVD films. Although this feature has been resisted by Sony it would allow consumers to enjoy this content

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around the home. Making this feature mandatory will ensure a consistent consumer experience across all next-generation DVD content, HP believes.

It is expected that HD movies will provide a much higher level of interactivity. iHD, which uses standards-based development tools and technologies, can provide consumers with enhanced content, navigation and functionality for HD films. Microsoft is already pledged to provide iHD support in the Windows Vista operating system due next year.

The move by HP will add further pressure to the Blu-ray consortium. Although the format has much of the movie industry behind it, Intel and Microsoft have backed the rival HD-DVD format. HP, which is in the Blu-ray camp, is clearly getting nervous and is flexing its muscle.

John Romano, HP's vice president, Consumer PC Global Business Unit said, 'We see format compatibility as critical to making technology accessible and easy to use for consumers. As a leader in the development and promotion of the Blu-ray Disc format, HP expects these moves to help ensure that the format provides the best possible experience for customers.'