Blu-ray and HD-DVD hybrid chip coming from NEC

Both next-generation DVD formats — Blu-ray and HD-DVD — could work in one DVD player if it's fitted with a new chip due from manufacturer NEC.

Essentially creating a multiformat DVD player, the chip would enable hardware manufacturers to accommodate content such as games and movies in the same piece of hardware, whether it's recorded on Blu-ray or HD-DVD.

While rival console manufacturers Sony and Microsoft have pledged allegiance to opposing formats, a hybrid player could potentially bring manufacturing costs down for company's hoping to take advantage of multiple entertainment formats.

NEC is hoping to begin shipping the chip in April 2007. Company's such as Pioneer and LG have previously announced efforts to create players that support both formats, but have since put any solid plans on hold.