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In an era when Netflix, Disney+ and other streaming platforms dominate the market, it might seem that physical media are becoming a thing of the past. Yet there are signs of a revival for the UHD Blu-ray format. More manufacturers are introducing 4K Blu-ray players, and disc sales of films have started to rise again.
As reported by FlatpanelsHD, Laser, Thomson, Krovatar, GIEC, DpBlue and Gotham Audio are becoming increasingly active in the UHD Blu-ray player market. This is an interesting shift, especially since in recent years companies such as Samsung, LG and Oppo have withdrawn from producing similar devices.
The new offerings include both relatively affordable units and models aimed at demanding home cinema fans. For example, the Thomson THB365 costs about €260 and supports Dolby Vision, while the Krovatar KBU-300 additionally offers HDR10+ and SACD playback. Meanwhile, Australian company Laser has announced its first UHD Blu-ray player for the end of November.
Will streaming replace discs?
Interestingly, according to Digital Entertainment Group sales of films on UHD Blu-ray in the United States rose by 12% in 2025. It’s the first clear positive sign after several years of declines, although the overall physical media market is still shrinking. What’s behind the renewed interest in discs? For home cinema enthusiasts, image and sound quality remain key. Films on UHD Blu-ray typically offer a significantly higher bitrate than streaming versions, and a purchased disc won’t disappear from your collection when a licence expires.
For now it’s hard to talk about a major Blu-ray comeback, but one thing is certain: physical movie releases still have their supporters, and hardware manufacturers are starting to see an opportunity in that.
Sources: FlatpanelsHD, UltraHDBlu-ray on X, Reddit @harrybalzac71
