You don’t have to run out and buy HD DVDs or Blu-ray Discs to enjoy high-definition movies at home.

Online rental service Netflix has announced it will support both formats when they are available. And start-up company MovieBeam offers films that arrive at a player and antenna in your home via the old-fashioned airwaves. The MovieBeam player comes packed with movies, and about 10 new ones come in every week, including some in high definition. However, MovieBeam can only offer some films 30 to 45 days after the release date. And look for more and more movie download offerings on the Internet in the not-too-distant future, including those in high definition.

The wacky new era in HD movies has only just begun.

Steven Castle - Contributing Writer

Steven Castle is Electronic House's managing editor. he has been writing about consumer electronics, homes and energy efficiency topics for two decades. He is also the co-founder of GreenTech Advocates.