There have been reports at Internet message boards that some Wal-Mart stores are already carrying the $298 player, which is roughly $100 less than previous entry-level Blu-ray devices.
But citing sources, Video Business confirms that the lower-cost player will be available throughout most of the retail chain by Memorial Day.
The publication writes that Wal-Mart did not comment on the report, but it says the player will be manufactured by the Japanese-based company, Funai, and sold under the Magnavox brand.
The player will be compatible with the Blu-ray Profile 1.1, which supports Picture-in-Picture features.
Video Business writes that the player will also be available at Best Buy in July, but for $347.99 under the Insignia brand.
The publication notes that this will be the first Blu-ray player launched at retail for under $300, although some players were available for that price during the height of the high-def disc format war with HD DVD.
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