ITV is refusing to play ball with Panasonic's Blu-ray recorder launch.

The commercial broadcaster is continuing to flag its limited HD output with Copy Never codes, which effectively prevent users of Panasonic's new Blu-ray recorders from archiving its HD programming onto Blu-ray disc.

ITV's stance is in stark contrast to the BBC, which is now flagging its HD content Copy Once, meaning a single dub from the player's hard drive to disc is permitted.

HCC highlighted ITV's non-compliance when we previewed the revolutionary Panasonic BD recorders back in April, but Panasonic's Marketing Manager David Preece said he was optimistic that it could bring ITV onboard prior to the recorder launch. 'We are talking with both ITV and Freesat about the issue, and are confident that ITV HD will move to Copy Once,' he told HCC.

This has so far failed to happen, with top programming like The Royal and cop soap The Bill being the latest programme to frustrate users.

Freesat's HD lineup is expected to grow this year. But if other A-league channels also fail to support Blu-ray recording, the future of the technology in the UK must remain in doubt.

In Japan, where Blu-ray recorders have already ousted DVD recorders from retail shelves, all hi-def broadcasters allow their programming to be copied up to a maximum of eleven times. HCC has asked both Freesat and Panasonic for comments on the situation.

Via Home Cinema Choice