The HD DVD (high-definition DVD) is a new-generation, high-capacity optical disc format, developed in response to the growing popularity of high-definition content. The HD DVD disc is the same size as the current DVD, but employs a more advanced laser technology to expand its storage capacity.

HD DVD Formats ． HD DVD-ROM: Pre-recorded disc containing videos or data ． HD DVD-R (HD DVD Recordable): Write-once recordable disc ． HD DVD-RW (HD DVD Rewritable): Recordable disc which can be repeatedly used for recording ． HD DVD-RAM: Recordable disc which can be repeatedly used for recording

Utilizing a shorter-wavelength blue laser, the HD DVD offers a massive storage capacity of 15GB on a single-layer disc and 30GB on a double-layer disc, about three to four times the amount of current DVDs.

Similarly, the uncompromised, multi-channel audio content is made available, thanks to a greater capacity of the new disc format. The HD DVD can support not only the standard Dolby Digital and DTS audio formats, but also the more advanced Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD, all of which offer up to eight channels of audio.

The much increased capacity of an HD DVD disc means that a greater amount of data, such as high-definition videos, can be easily stored and delivered. High-definition pictures contain more pixels and scan lines in a frame, and are thus capable of presenting objects in more significant details. The HD DVD can accommodate high-definition video content of resolution up to 1080p.

The networking feature of HD DVD format brings viewing flexibility and more customized applications to the audience. Depending on the content providers, this feature will be able to offer consumers extra interactive services, such as downloading additional subtitles, searching related information, etc.