In a move that must be spurred by desperation, Samsung and Toshiba have joined forces to design a player that will support both Blu-ray and HD-DVD formats, according to bit-tech. The site says the player will be available later this year or early 2007, just not in a next-gen console.

Tom's Hardware is reporting that Sony is also looking at a hybrid player with NEC. Too bad we're so close to the PS3 launch, it would be great if they could just throw a hybrid player in there instead of Blu-ray.

Of course, Microsoft could always just throw out another gaming appendage down the line if they felt like taking the hybrid route or, don't hold your breath, decided to support Blu-ray. Brian Crecente

Hybrid HD Player From Samsung and Toshiba [Bit-Tech]