Want to watch DVD videos for half its price? Welcome to the world of DivX technology. DivX is a new format for digital video, much like MP3 is a format for digital music. DivX is the brand name of a video compression technology created by DivX network, Inc. The DivX codec (short for compression-decompression) is based on the mpeg-4 compression standard. This codec is so advanced that it can reduce an mpeg-2 video (the same format used for DVD or Pay-Per-View) to ten percent of its original size. Video on regular VHS tapes can be reduced to about one hundredth of their original size.

Before now, video's bulky file size has slowed the proliferation of Internet video distribution. Moreover, compressing video down to a size where it could be transferred over the Internet normally meant the end result looked like a pointillist painting done by Seurat's evil (and very untalented) twin brother. DivX compression technology solves these problems with unmatched compression ability and visual quality virtually indistinguishable from a DVD. The result? You can download a full-length, full-motion, full-screen, DVD-quality feature film using a standard broadband connection in about the time it takes to have a pizza delivered.

In essence, DivX compression technology makes it possible for you to download and playback high quality digital movies on your PC and other devices. Compaq's PocketPC now supports DivX videos, and soon you'll be able to get DivX content on your television, via your set top box, game console, and other convergence devices. The bad side of the DivX is that it is basically still an underground project. You can¡¦t go out and get DivX, you have to download it via the net- which means if you have less than Cable- its going to be a long wait! But if you have the patience and technology, why not enjoy something better?