Wal-Mart's feeling Blu-ray

BENTONVILLE HD-DVD lost a major battle in the format wars today, as Wal-Mart announced that it will move to offer only the Blu-ray option for high-definition movies and hardware. The company said that by June all of its Wal-Mart stores and Sam's Clubs will only offer the Blu-ray format, and that over the next several months it would phase out HD-DVD offering from its stores.

"We’ve listened to our customers, who are showing a clear preference toward Blu-ray products and movies with their purchases," said Gary Severson, senior vp of home entertainment for Wal-Mart, U.S.  "With the customers best interest in all we do, we wanted to share our decision and timeline with them as soon as possible, knowing it will help simplify their purchase decision, increase selection, and increase adoption long term.  We anticipate enhancing our selection with continued great values in hi-definition Blu-ray products, so our customers can further enhance their entertainment experience at home."

Wal-Mart's decision is in line with other retailers that are moving toward the Blu-ray format. Best Buy this week announced that starting in March it will prominently showcase Blu-ray hardware and software products in its Best Buy retail and online channels in the United States. unlike Wal-Mart, however, Best Buy said it would still offer HD-DVD products to those who prefer that option.