Panasonic has introduced its second generation of portable Blu-ray Disc players, with two models:
DMP-B500 (with a bigger, better screen than the first-gen DMP-B15) and
DMP-B100. Both players feature much of the same state-of-the-art technology found in Panasonic's stand alone Blu-ray Disc players. They will be available in the spring; pricing is still unknown.
Product highlights are as follows:
DMP-B500
- 10.1-inch WSVGA screen
- Expanded VIERA CAST internet functionality with Wi-Fi wireless LAN connection
- SD Memory card slot with JPEG and AVCHD support
- USB port
- Dolby Digital and DTS HD
- VIERA Link
DMP-B100
- 8.9-inch WSVGA screen
- SD Memory Card Slot with JPEG support
- Adjustable position screen
- Dolby Digital and DTS HD
In addition the design of the B500 and B100 has been refined. With a mono-arm design, the display angle of the B100 can be freely adjusted, while the photo stand-like design of the B500 allows for comfortable positions.
"Last year Panasonic was proud to introduce the unique and innovative, DMP-B15, the world's first portable Blu-ray player and this year Panasonic cements its industry leadership position as a pioneer in the development of audio/video products," said Richard Simone, Director, Entertainment Group, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. "This continues our commitment to provide the consumer with state-of-the-art technology that is created to enhance ones' entertainment experience. With more people purchasing Blu-ray discs, there is a growing market for this product, a Blu-ray player that allows the consumer to view those Blu-ray titles while traveling. Plus, there is the added bonus that the B500 also provides a second player for use with any HDTV to provide true 1080p quality."
For 2010 Panasonic's VIERA CAST's content, found on the DMP-B500, has been expanded to include Netflix(TM), Pandora, Twitter and Fox Sports. Viera CAST continues to offer access to Amazon Video on Demand, YouTube, Picasa Web Albums, Bloomberg and a weather channel. VIERA CAST is accessed via an on-board Ethernet connection or Wi-Fi and therefore does not require any external set top boxes. The service is free, though there is a charge for movies streamed from Amazon Video on Demand and Netflix. Furthermore, as additional sites are added to the 2010 VIERA CAST service, they are added automatically.