The Blu-ray Disc Association announced that the format specification is complete and that licensing is ready to begin for BD-ROM, BD-RE and BD-R. The completion of the specification now enables content providers and manufacturers to begin the process of producing Blu-ray disc products for a wide variety of uses.

“We are very pleased to announce this very important milestone for the Blu-ray Disc format,” said Victor Matsuda, global chairman, Blu-ray disc association promotions committee.

The association reportedly approved the specifications on January 2, 2006. Licensing of the BD-R (Blu-ray disc recordable) and BD-RE 2.0 specifications began December 26, 2005.  Specifications have been approved for the Blu-ray disc single- (25GB) and dual- (50GB) layer specifications.

 “The completion of these specifications is an important step in establishing Blu-ray Disc as the premiere next-generation optical disc format and provides manufacturers with the information they need to launch products this beginning this Spring,” Mr. Matsuda added.

Companies like Dell, Samsung, Sony, Panasonic and Pioneer are expected to introduce consumer electronics and PCs featuring Blu-ray optical readers and burners on the U.S. and European markets this spring and summer.

Blu-ray format will face tough competition from the competing HD DVD technology that provides lower capacities, but comes at much lower manufacturing cost.