HERNDON, Va., Dec. 18, 1998 (PRIMEZONE) -- The biggest inconvenience of renting videos -- returning them -- is eliminated with a new advance in DVD technology called Divx, which marks the end of video rentals as we know them. Divx video discs can be played on a specially enhanced DVD player. And viewers can play all the DVD discs they have now on the Divx player, as well as all their CD's.
Interestingly enough, returning videos - not late charges - is the most complained about part of renting them. Thirty-eight percent of those asked in a recent survey said that bringing videoback was the worst part of the experience, and that number jumped to 51 percent among baby boom mothers.
Since Divx discs don't have to be returned, late fees are eliminated. Instead, viewers purchase a 5-inch, CD-sized disc that contains the movie of their choice. Cost: about $4.50. They take it home and play it whenever they want - the 48-hour rental begins when they put it in their player, not before. And if they want to renew the rental for another 48 hours, it costs $3.25. Additional viewing can occur days, weeks, or months later. Or, for a small fee, they can purchase unlimited play. The DIVX machine automatically calls an 800 number. Viewers don't need another phone line -- the call is placed late at night when no one is using the phone. In addition, Divx discs provide theater-quality sound and picture which is superior to traditional VHS tapes.
Divx is a product of Digital Video Express, LP, a partnership between Circuit City Stores, Inc., (NYSE: CC, KMX), the nation's leading consumer electronics retailer, and a prominent Los Angeles entertainment law firm. To obtain more information about DIVX, visit its web site at www.divx.com.
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