If you want to watch Blu-ray on the go, Panasonic is getting ready to release a portable player just for you. And it’s only $800.

Panasonic’s DMP-B15 has an array of cool features. The 16:9 LCD screen is 8.9 inches. The player uses Viera Cast internet connectivity for BD Live access and easy updating. There’s a slot for an SD memory card. It’s a pretty nifty toy for the well-heeled traveler.

“As a pioneer in the development of DVD and Blu-ray expertise, Panasonic has always been at the forefront in developing cutting-edge, consumer friendly technology,” said Panasonic exec Richard Simone. “… With the B15 we continue that tradition of being first to market with unique technology.”

I have no doubt that Panasonic is introducing a fine player, and it would be fun to play around with it. But who needs high-def playback on a screen that small? And at that price? The rechargeable battery is also said to be good for only 2 1/2 hours, which gets you little more than one movie and a few extras.

Panasonic points out that consumers can also use the B15 as their main Blu-ray player, thanks to an HDMI output that allows it to be hooked up to a home theater. But who would take their main player on the road? With all of their Blu-ray discs? And at that price?

Did I mention the high price?

Now, I know the reason why the B15 costs so much. It offers new technology, and prices for that always start high and then gradually fall. But as a heavy Blu-ray user, I question the need for a portable player, especially when so many Blu-ray releases include digital copies for iPods, PSPs and the like.

I requested a B15 loaner to see if I’m completely missing something here but was told that demand was very high. Like the price, I guess. 

TAKE THE MP3 CHALLENGE!
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This entry was posted on Thursday, June 4th, 2009 at 7:15 am and is filed under DVDs. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.