In September 2010, I bought an HP Pavilion Elite HPE 250-f desktop computer (running Windows 7). This computer was advertised as having a Blu-ray DVD player, as well as players for regular DVDs and CDs. From September 2010 to October 2014, I successfully played regular DVDs and CDs. But in October 2014, for the first time, I needed to view a Blu-ray DVD. Specifically, I needed to view the "Divergent" Blu-ray.
When I tried to play the "Divergent" Blu-ray (which was made in 2014), the HP MediaSmart DVD software (version 3.1.1.3317) and the Windows Media Player detected the Blu-ray but were not able to play the Blu-ray.
Next, I downloaded the Media Player Codec Pack, http://download.cnet.com/Media-Player-Codec-Pack/3000-13632_4-10749065.html. This Codec Pack was supposed to help Windows Media Player play the Blu-ray. That did not work.
I then downloaded Cyberlink PowerDVD 14, which played the Blu-ray for only about 7 seconds before crashing.
I downloaded TotalMedia Theatre version 6.0.1.123. However, this software did not even detect the Blu-ray.
Recently, I decided to revisit this issue. I installed the most advanced version of HP MediaSmart DVD. I installed HP TouchSmart DVD, version 4.1.2.5122.
TouchSmart flawlessly played disk 1 of the 2-disk "Star Trek" Blu-ray set (made in 2009). However, TouchSmart was not able to play the "Divergent" Blu-ray at all. After failing to play the "Divergent" Blu-ray, TouchSmart attempted to play disk 2 of the "Star Trek" Blu-ray set. TouchSmart played disk 2 with poor video.
Next, for some strange reason, TouchSmart became totally inaccessible. I could not start TouchSmart. I rebooted the computer. TouchSmart was then able to play the "Divergent" regular DVD, but was unable to play the "Star Trek" Blu-rays at all.
I did a system restore to the point just after the installation of TouchSmart. TouchSmart played regular DVDs well, but still could not play the "Star Trek" Blu-rays at all.
Next, I got rid of TouchSmart and installed HP MediaSmart DVD, version 4.1.4229 (sp49489.exe). MediaSmart 4.1.4229 flawlessly played the "Speed" Blu-ray (made in 2006). However, MediaSmart 4.1.4229 failed to play either of the "Star Trek" Blu-rays. And after failing to play the "Star Trek" Blu-rays, MediaSmart 4.1.4229 played "Speed" with poor video.
So, it appears that any specific version of HP MediaSmart DVD software will play old Blu-rays successfully, and will then subsequently fail to play more advanced, more recent Blu-rays. After that version fails to play the more advanced Blu-rays, that version will play the old Blu-rays, not as flawlessly as before, but rather with poor video quality or not at all.
I have read many threads on the HP forums and on other forums about people having trouble playing Blu-ray DVDs on a wide variety of HP computers. I went back to the specifications of my HP computer, and I found the following disclaimer about that computer's Blu-ray capabilities:
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As Blu-Ray is a new format containing new technologies, certain disc, digital connection, compatibility and/or performance issues may arise, and do not constitute defects in the product. Flawless playback on all systems is not guaranteed. In order for some Blu-ray titles to play, they may require a DVI or HDMI digital connection and your display may require HDCP support. HD-DVD movies cannot be played on this Desktop PC. Some HD DVD and Blu-ray advanced features may not be supported. CPU power is dedicated to support HD DVD and Blu-ray playback functions. It is recommended that you close all other applications before and during HD DVD and Blu-ray playback. HD DVD and Blu-ray movies will only play through the HD DVD and Blu-ray player software. Advanced Access Content System (AACS) keys are integrated into your PC for copy protection purposes. Occasional renewal of the AACS key is required, and easily done by connecting to the internet.
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I believe that I have gone way above and beyond ordinary diligence, to try to get my computer to play Blu-ray DVDs. The disclaimer states that certain issues may arise and that flawless Blu-ray playback is not guaranteed for all systems. But certainly my frustrating experiences, and the frustrating experiences of others, go way beyond the leeway given by HP's disclaimer, do they not? Has anyone thought about the possibility of a class-action lawsuit against HP?