A similar industry schism occurred between DVD+R and DVD-R media.  Two separate industry groups attempted to control the majority of the media royalties by introducing two competing formats.  When it became clear neither side would back down, electronics companies designed recorders that would easily negotiate protocols for either format media.  In the end, the DVD recorders cost a little more as consumers had to pay royalties to both consortiums.

Assuming that both formats will be around for a long period, the Total HD disc will be ideal for some consumers -- yet the consumer will eventually eat the costs of royalties for both formats if Total HD succeeds.  A hybrid HD DVD/Blu-ray player would be considerably more expensive right now, but the media costs could be reduced as well. 

LG Electronics is expected to unveil the world's first dual-format high-def player capable of playing both Blu-ray and HD-DVD formats.  Pricing, availability and other details will become available during Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vagas next week.

The cost of producing Total HD media may also be a downside for the format.  At its most basic level, Total HD may just be a double-sided print with Blu-ray on one side and HD DVD on the other. Given the already exorbitant price for single-sided high-definition movies, the price of Total HD will likely not be for those on a budget.

The official announcement from Warner Brothers is expected on Tuesday during the CES.