When will double-sided or dual-layer discs appear? Will they work in all players?
Dual-layer discs are already available. Some replicators plan to produce double-sided discs, dual-layer discs, and double-dual discs from day one. Obviously the prices will be higher, but certain producers already require more space than is available on a single side or single layer. All DVD players and drives will play dual-layer discs — it’s required by the spec’s. All players and drives will also play double-sided discs if you flip them over. No manufacturer has announced a model that will play both sides. Since discs can use two layers instead of two sides, the added cost in the player is not justified.
Soon. Some replicators plan to produce double-sided discs, dual-layer discs, and double-dual discs from day one. Obviously the prices will be higher, but certain producers already require more space than is available on a single side or single layer. All players will play dual-layer discs — it’s required. All players will also play double-sided discs if you flip the discs over. No manufacturer has announced a player that will play both sides. (See 2.9 for note on reading both sides simultaneously.
