Pioneer will release later this month in Japan the BDR-XU03JM, a portable USB 3.0 BD drive BDXL that it just 1.2 cm thick and comes bundled with software compatible with Apple's computers and iPhones.
The drive is actually the same the Japanese company had announced last September - the BDR-XU03J. What has changed is the software provided with the package.
Roxio's Toast 12 HD / BD plug-in has been added to support BD / DVD / CD burning on Macs and the creation of BD / DVD videos including in the AVCHD format.
When combined with the optional wireless "APS-WF01J" dock, the drive can be wirelessly connected with Macs. In addition, if you use the free "ODFinder" iOS application to enjoy music and video stored on a disc to your iPhone / iPad. (BD / DVD video playback is not supported).
Besides the new software bundle, the slot-loading BD drive features a magnesium alloy housing that suppresses the vibration during operation. In addition, an internal shutter film reduces the noises from the spinning disc and also keeps the dust away from the drive's internal.
The drive burns BD-R / R DL at 6x, BD-RE (SL / DL / TL) at 2x, BD-R TL / QL at 4x, DVD ± R DL at 4x, DVD-RAM at 5x and finally CD-R / RW at 24x.
Pioneer is also bringing its Pure Read2 + algorithm to offer more reliable playback of audio CDs even if they are scratched.
The drive can be powered by the USB 3.0 interface but an optional AC adapter will also be available.
The BDR-XU03JM will be available next month in Japan for about 26,000 yen.