Apple has been well known by sticking to its own trademarks and brands. Firewire is one of them, MiniDisplayPort is just another example. While some might thing that the lack of Blu-ray in the new iMacs announced this 20th October is caused by the uneasiness Apple has in paying a licence to use Blu-ray, I find it has reasons beyond its stubborness.

The DVD has taken hold of the content industry, and nowadays is very, very cheap. When the DVD first arrived, it was somewhat expensive — like Blu-Ray. But, unlike Blu-ray, it had time to get cheap. Will Blu-ray have that time?

Let me explain myself — Now netflix and itunes, among others, are pioneering the concept of video streaming, movie rentals via web, via a host by way of a payable account. These films and shows come in spectacular HD definition and cost way less than one Blu-ray. For example, a movie in Blu-ray costs around 30 dollars, while in itunes you can rent it for 3 or 4, and buy it for about 10. What would you choose?

The beginning of Blu-ray (up to now) had sales hurt by the cheapness of DVD. But after that, it will be hurt by the cheapness and easiness of movie downloads and streming.

What do you think?