Toshiba has announced unveiling of the world's first slim HD DVD rewriteable (RW) drive for laptop PCs at the ongoing Computex 2007 in Taipei, Taiwan.

"SD-L912A" can read from and rewrite to single- and dual-layer HD DVD RW discs, re-recordable HD DVDs, DVDs, and CDs.

According to Toshiba, "SD-L912A" will enable replacing larger desktop systems in homes with laptop PCs having this additional HD functionality.

And, the HD DVD RW functionality will open doors to a wider range of applications that involve storage and rewriting of large volumes of data.

Reportedly, the single- and double-layer HD DVD discs are already available in capacities of 15GB and 30GB respectively, while triple- layer HD DVD Rom discs, to offer up to 51GB, are presently under development, and will be available later this year.

The "SD-L912A" also allows backup of large-capacity PC hard disk drives to the reusable format of HD DVD RW discs, providing capabilities to store data-rich, HD digital content.

Scott Maccabe, Vice President and General Manager, Toshiba Storage Device Division, said, "HD broadcasting, and increasing consumer interest in HD televisions and camcorders are spurring demand for a HD experience across the entire PC and consumer electronics ecosystem."

"HD DVD is the best solution for transitioning to a HD world because it is compatible with existing DVD and CD technology. Our new rewritable drive will extend the functionality of HD DVD as a tool for creating and enjoying digital content in the mobile PC environment," Maccabe said.

Toshiba's "SD-L912A" HD DVD RW drive for laptop PCs is scheduled for sample shipping next month. The company is reportedly planning on offering the drive on an OEM basis to PC makers, and not directly to customers.