April 15, 2026, 1:43 pm | Read time: 2 minutes
Physical media are generally on the decline. Interest is waning continuously, and sales have been falling since the rise of streaming. Nevertheless, there are still plenty of fans of DVDs and Blu-rays who remain loyal to them. These fans are now receiving surprising support from the industry.
Verbatim and I-O Data Continue Blu-Ray Production
As reported by Techspot, the well-known Japanese manufacturers Verbatim and I-O Data have released a joint statement. In it, they emphasize their intention to collaborate more closely and continue producing Blu-rays and the associated playback devices.
They also acknowledge that the market continues to shrink. Nonetheless, there are still companies and private consumers who want to continue using optical media—not just for entertainment purposes, but more for recording or storing data.
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An Enthusiastic Niche Market
Both manufacturers have already proven that this is not an empty promise. Verbatim announced a new Blu-ray burner, the “Slimline,” for 4K content at CES 2025. And earlier this year, I-O Data followed up with the BD Reco—featuring sixfold writing speed and an accompanying Windows app.
Reportedly, these innovations have been “enthusiastically” received by Japanese fans. Theoretically, fans elsewhere can also rejoice, as it is possible to import the devices. Verbatim and I-O Data’s commitment to Blu-ray comes after larger and smaller manufacturers, including Sony and LG, have withdrawn from the market.
Also of interest: Editor on Blu-Rays and DVDs – “Did I Cry Too Soon?”
Sold-Out Blu-ray Drives in Japan
In Japan, there is certainly a different relationship with physical media than elsewhere. And there still seems to be considerable purchasing power for the blue discs. When Microsoft ended support for Windows 10 in 2025, many consumers had to switch to new hardware—which nowadays typically lacks a disc drive.
According to Tom’s Hardware, this led to a rush on Blu-ray and DVD drives, which were sold out in many places. Discs remain very popular in the gaming sector as well: In 2024, the best-selling PS5 in the U.S. was the one with the drive—it accounted for 82 percent of all sales.
Especially in relation to movies, Blu-rays are experiencing a resurgence, thanks to special editions and specialized labels. It seems the medium is still vigorously resisting its demise.