May 30, 1987 – The Philips Company Unveiled Its Compact Disc Video

May 30

Copy of CD Videos

On May 30, 1987, Philips introduced a lesser-known piece of musical technology: the Compact Disc Video. This new technology aimed to capitalize on the popularity and convenience of the compact disc by adding video capabilities. The CD Video could hold up to 20 minutes of audio and 5 minutes of analog video with sound from LaserDisc.

Although the CD Video was innovative, it ultimately did not achieve widespread success. One of the main issues was the limited playback options available. CD Videos could only be played on a CD Video player or a LaserDisc player, making them incompatible with regular CD audio players. This limitation meant that consumers had to invest in the new technology and a compatible device to use it. 

Additionally, the CD Video allowed only 5 minutes of video playback, which was a significant drawback, especially for longer music videos and shows. Furthermore, CD Videos were expensive, particularly considering the need to purchase additional equipment to use them. This high cost priced out many young consumers, who were the demographic most likely to be interested. Ultimately, the CD Video was deemed a failed format and was discontinued after just a few short years.

Fun Facts about CD Videos:

  • CDVs were gold in color to distinguish them from the silver audio CDs. 
  • CDVs were novel because they combined audio tracks with a few minutes of video tracks. 
  • Though they debuted in 1987, they were already considered a failed format a few years later.
  • By 1990, CD videos had disappeared from the United States, but they remained popular in Japan until 1992. 
  • Philips launched the more popular Video CD in 1993.