Sony has issued the first firmware upgrade for its Blu-ray Disc player (BDP-S1) in order to, among other things, enhance the unit's BD-Java functionality and to provide added BD-ROM support. (Sony refers to its Blu-ray Disc format simply as "BD.")

Sony posted the upgrade download (Version 1.50) to its support Web site last weekend.

The upgrade includes improved BD-Java compatibility to enhance interactivity with some BD-ROMs and its playback compatibility with certain BD-ROM discs. The upgrade also will correct signal status information for audio outputs, and indicate when Linear PCM 5.1 channel soundtracks are played back via HDMI connections.

Sony has sent e-mail alerts to all registered player owners telling those consumers who do not wish to download the upgrade and burn their own DVD-R discs can receive the firmware upgrade for free by regular mail within the next three weeks, according to High-Def Digest.