Toshiba statement on bbc web
The only option i see is, if toshica can manage to release stb HD DVD recoder as soon as possible, with the HD Rec format announced back in october, who knows. The backing of Picture Studios is overrated, i reckon more people would be interested in recording TV shows than watching old movies on a disc.
I mean if they can provide affordable HD-dvdr media and recorder units, it doesn't matter if any hollywood studio are backing them or not.
But nevertheless credits for toshiba for creating an alternative format against panasonic and sony.