The latest breaking news is that Warner will end their format neutrality at the end of May 2008, and they’re not taking the red pill.

The press release mentions that distributing in a single format is in the best interest for consumers and Time Warner.

Obviously, it’s not the happiest news ahead of the CES show, but something like this had been predicted. The forums will be ablaze with lots of commentary on the move, and here’s your chance to follow up on those discussion threads:

• AVS Forum
• High-Def Digest forum
• Home Theater forum
• Satellite Guys forum

I’m sure there’s going to be plenty of news to report about this in the days ahead, as CES brings opportunities for more information and developments.

UPDATE: Only a short response from Toshiba at the moment, read the press release here. They naturally express their disappointment and there’ll likely be a lot more to say at the HD DVD news conference that was already scheduled for Sunday at CES postponed.

UPDATE: Keeping it short and sweet, here’s the response from the North American HD DVD Promotional Group:

“While Warner’s decision is a setback for HD DVD, the consumer has benefited from HD DVD’s commitment to quality and affordability — a bar that is critical for the mainstream success of any format. We believe widespread adoption of a next generation format will ultimately be determined by the consumer.”

I’m sure there will be more wordy responses as everyone has a chance to digest the news.

Also, opposing fanboys, no need to keep posting comments that I’m not going to be approving for publication at this site. You have your own venues for discussion. I’ve never come to your “house” to throw rocks and bombs, so don’t try it here.