Rather interesting idea from Ricoh -- they're including a little window and graph on the package of their new line of DVD-R media so that you can "see" how much capacity you have left on a disc without having to put it into your PC/recorder.

A trained eye can take a fairly accurate guess, but this is a nice idea for those who may not realize what the different bands of color means on the back of their discs.

Ricoh Corporation will release the industry's first 8x DVD-R media with a "window" for confirming the remaining recording capacity of discs, on the package.

This is 8x DVD-R media. It does not support CPRM. Its biggest feature would be the use of a window on its packaging that allows users to see how much capacity they have remaining on their discs. The jacket features a "remaining capacity display window" with gradations, which will allow users to compare the recording surface of the disc that hasn't been used with the part that has been used, in turn allowing them to see how much recording time they actually have left on the discs.

The spindle model of the discs will also feature a transparent disc for accomplishing this same goal. It is intended to be put on the outer edge of the DVD-R media.

Also, the P-Case Model will include title seals to be stuck on the back of the cases. The front jacket also has index tabs, like those on binders, to allow for easy removal from the P-Case. If you were to write the title on the tabs, and put it in a rack, you could still easily find the necessary title.

The label surface is printable using an inkjet printer, and can be printed on as far inward as 22mm. The 5 color mix type are all pastel colors.

Inspired by:
http://www.watch.impress.co.jp/av/docs/20050822/ricoh.htm

Press Release:
http://www.ricoh.co.jp/release/by_field/cd_dvd/2005/0822.html