Apparently there has been some confusion in the 'sphere the past few days on whether 32-bit based PCs running Windows Vista will support HD formats including HD-DVD and Blu-Ray. HD-DVD and Blu-Ray support will be made available in Vista via ISV applications and according to a statement by Adam Anderson, nothing in any version of Windows Vista would make that determination. Here's the official Microsoft statement on the topic:
It is up to the ISVs providing playback solutions to determine whether the intended playback environment, including environments with a 32-bit CPU, meets the performance requirements to allow high-definition playback while supporting the guidelines set forth by the content owners. No version of Windows Vista will make a determination as to whether any given piece of content should play back or not.
It is up to the ISVs providing playback solutions to determine whether the intended playback environment, including environments with a 32-bit CPU, meets the performance requirements to allow high-definition playback while supporting the guidelines set forth by the content owners.
No version of Windows Vista will make a determination as to whether any given piece of content should play back or not.
I'm working to get additional detail on the topic and will post more here when I can.
Disclaimer The opinions expressed herein are my own personal opinions and do not represent my employer's view in any way.