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CES: 10 Questions For HDTV

Washington, D.C.

Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates will give the pre-show keynote address Sunday night kicking off the 2008 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.

Although Gates will likely focus on new PC-based technologies, most attendees during the week will be watching for major developments impacting the High-Definition TV industry.

In the last several years, high-def has dominated the annual gadget fest and this year is expected to be no different. (Monday and Tuesday morning keynotes from Panasonic and Comcast respectively should serve up more substance for the high-def enthusiast.)

So, as you make your way to the City of Lost Wages, here are 10 big HDTV questions that could be answered during the conference.

Will Warner Bros. Endorse Blu-ray Or HD DVD?
The rumors are flying that Warner will shed its neutrality and support either Blu-ray or HD DVD in the high-def disc format war. A Blu-ray endorsement would give the Sony-backed format an overwhelming advantage in studio support and perhaps trigger an end to the war. A shift to HD DVD shift would help level the playing field and perhaps ensure that both formats will be around for some time to come. Warner is denying that it will endorse one over the other. The HD DVD camp is holding a press event on Sunday night. If Warner shows up, we might learn something then. If Warner doesn't show up, that might tell us something, too.

Will DIRECTV Announce New HDTV Features?
While the satcaster has expanded its high-def lineup from nine channels to more than 85 in just three months, it could be waiting for CES to make a few more channel announcements. We might also hear about a few more HD-related initiatives, such as DIRECTV's now-in-Beta Video On Demand program.

Will EchoStar Add More HD Channels?
The nation's second leading satcaster has been quiet on the high-def front lately. However, it could confirm longstanding rumors that it will add MOJO (the HD variety channel found now on cable systems) and a few other HDTV networks such as USA Network and Sci-Fi Channel. EchoStar chief Charlie Ergen is usually good for a few interesting announcements during CES. (EchoStar has a press conference scheduled for Monday morning.)

Will More Companies Offer HD DVD Players?
Toshiba has been the sole manufacturer of HD DVD players until now. But with Toshiba player sales rising (albeit at a slow pace compared to other electronics products), perhaps a few other CE companies will begin making the boxes.

Will Sony Cut Blu-ray Prices?
Minus a Warner endorsement, Sony, the leading backer of the Blu-ray high-def disc format, will need something at CES to make a splash. Could the company be preparing a lower-cost Blu-ray player, perhaps one for around $299 suggested retail? (The suggested retail is now $499.). The Blu-ray promotional group has scheduled a press event on Monday evening. We should get some interesting news then. (Also, Sony has a press conference scheduled on Sunday.)

Will Comcast Reveal New HDTV Plans?
Comcast CEO Brian Roberts will give the Tuesday morning keynote address and the cable executive could use the forum to reveal the company's upcoming plans for High-Definition.
The cable industry has been outspoken of late that it has not done enough to counter DIRECTV's marketing effort for its high-def expansion. Roberts could help change that by announcing a bold new initiative for high-def programming choices.

Will Samsung Unveil a 'Low-Cost' Dual-Format Player?
The LG dual-format player (plays both Blu-ray and HD DVD) retails for $999, far too expensive for most consumers. However, Samsung is launching its own dual-format player and rumors are circulating that it could come in under $600. That would still be too pricey for most people, but it's a step in the right direction. (Samsung has a press conference scheduled on Sunday.)

Will Apple Offer High-Def Downloads?
Pre-show reports indicate that Fox (and maybe Disney) will begin offering movie rentals at Apple's iTunes store. But will they include high-def movies and TV shows? If so, it could help spark some life in Apple's disappointing Apple TV device. (Apple may not reveal too much until the MacWorld conference, starting January 14, but CES might offer a few details.)

Will Microsoft Add HD DVR Features to XBox 360?
One of the hottest pre-show rumors is that Microsoft will team with Toshiba to develop an HD DVD player that can record high-def programming as well as play games. If true, we'll find out at Bill Gates' Sunday night address.

Will the High-Def DVD Recorder Be Unveiled?
Companies have been selling high-def DVD recorders in Japan for a few years, but have been shy about plans to introduce them elsewhere. Maybe this year at CES we will get some hint as to when they will be available here.