Sony has announced it will cease production of recordable Blu-ray discs and other physical recording media by February 2025, marking the end of an 18-year run for its Blu-ray Disc media. The decision also impacts MiniDiscs, MD Data discs, and MiniDV cassettes, with the company confirming that no successor products will be introduced.

This might come as a disappointment for fans of these formats, but it’s not entirely unexpected. With streaming services taking over how we watch and listen to entertainment, physical media has been steadily losing ground. Sony’s move is just the latest in a trend we’ve been seeing, like Best Buy and Target recently deciding to stop selling physical media altogether.

Sony’s decision to exit the recordable Blu-ray market reflects the declining demand for physical media. Over the past decade, consumers have shifted toward digital solutions, valuing convenience over the physical formats that were once staples of home entertainment. Blu-ray discs, which once set the standard for high-definition viewing, are now caught in this decline.

Just last year, sales of DVDs and Blu-rays dropped by 26%, and it’s become harder to find Blu-ray players as major manufacturers like LG and Samsung have left the market. Only a few niche brands, such as Reavon and Magnetar, still make players for the most dedicated users.

Sony’s announcement specifically impacts recordable Blu-ray discs, which were often used for archiving or personal recording. The company clarified that this decision is most relevant in markets like Japan, where Blu-ray recorders were commonly used to save TV programs. In contrast, North America never saw widespread adoption of Blu-ray recording due to restrictions around copying copyrighted content.

Just because Sony is stepping away doesn’t mean recordable Blu-ray discs will vanish overnight. Other manufacturers, like Panasonic and Verbatim, still produce blank Blu-ray media. However, with Sony exiting the space, options could become more limited, and prices may fluctuate as remaining brands adjust to the market.

It’s also worth noting that this decision doesn’t affect pre-recorded Blu-ray media. Movie studios still release films and TV shows on Blu-ray, especially in the 4K Ultra HD format, which continues to attract collectors and cinephiles who value its top-tier video and audio quality. So, while physical movies might be less popular these days, they’re not going away just yet.

Sony’s move highlights the struggles facing physical media in general. While vinyl records and CDs have seen modest comebacks in the music world, DVDs and Blu-rays haven’t been so lucky. The rise of digital streaming, along with the introduction of disc-free devices like Sony’s PS5 Pro, has made physical formats feel increasingly outdated.

Still, there are moments when Blu-ray sales see a boost—like when big titles such as Oppenheimer or Dune 2 hit shelves. Collectors also continue to seek out 4K Blu-rays for their unmatched quality, keeping the format alive in niche markets.

If you still use recordable Blu-ray discs, now might be the time to stock up. With Sony leaving the market, supplies could dwindle, and retailers like Walmart and Amazon might be your best bet for finding them in the future.

While recordable Blu-rays may eventually phase out, the format as a whole isn’t disappearing tomorrow. For now, Blu-ray discs remain a solid option for those who value the quality and tangibility of physical media, even as digital options dominate the industry.