Apple responds to 2003 Mac DVD standards issue

Several readers have reported that their new 2003 1 GHz iMac models are shipping with the Sony DVD-RW DW-U10A. This drive is -R/-RW, R/ RW and CDR/CDRW compatible.

However, users report problems writing in the RW and R, apparently due to Apple's decision to limit the firmware for these devices to use of the DVD-R standard. Apple's Nathalie Welch provided MacFixIt with an official statement on the situation:

"Apple does not reveal the names of its component vendors in order to have more flexibility among suppliers. Also, Apple supports the DVD-R standard due to increased compatibility with consumer players and the availability of more affordable media."

According to most readers, the new Sony drive is faster for burning both DVDs and CDs. Some new iMacs ship with a Pioneer drive, while others ship with the Sony model.

Feedback on this issue? Drop us a line at late-breakers@macfixit.com.

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