Universal Music Group (UMG) has announced that it is going to join the Blu-ray disc association to help further Sony's next-gen format to become mainstream media.

President of UMG's media and technology division, Larry Kenswill said, "The delivery of both high-definition video and multi-channel audio technologies is becoming increasingly important. We recognize that Blu-ray disc has the capacity, functionality and interactivity both artists and music fans demand. We intend to work closely with the BDA in order the represent the unique requirements of the music industry in the format creation process."

A blu-ray spokesperson added to UMG president's comments, " In collaboration with the world's leading technology and content companies, we are on track to launch a complete high-definition format that is the quantum leap in innovation and delivers a dramatic new consumer experience in all areas of home entertainment, movies, music and games. "

Blu-ray format is one of the contenders for the choice of successor to DVD. Currently it faces strong opposition from its rival format, HD-DVD. Which has support from Universal Pictures, a division of GE's NBC Universal and totally unrelated to UMG backing Blu-ray.

Blu-ray format is being created to support high-definition audio and visuals. According to the Blu-ray Disc Association, a single layer Blu-ray disc can store up to 25GB and a dual layer can hold up to 50GB. Sony's next-generation game console called PlayStation 3 will include a Blu-ray drive. It will be able to use the new disc format for both games and movies.