First generation HD DVD players from Toshiba can now be updated to support new features, thanks to the mandatory Ethernet port on every player. Firmware update version 2.1 can be downloaded over the Internet for owners of Toshiba HD DVD player models HD-XA1, HD-A1 and HD-D1.

According to the release notes, the firmware update adds support for “certain anticipated network delivered content” in future HD DVD discs. Also addressed are issues where HDMI output does not work or works intermittently with HDTVs or monitors and improvements in playback to eliminate pixelization, block noise and audio dropouts.

Several HD DVD players appear to be due for firmware updates given the recent breakout of compatibility problems. Children of Men is giving HD DVD owners a headache, with reports of freezing or refusal to play, even after trying multiple, retail exchanged copies of the movie. The Toshiba-made HD DVD add-on for Xbox 360 is also getting an update to improve compatibility with new titles such as Nine Inch Nails: Beside You In Time.