The Blu-ray optical high definition format specifies three different profiles, each with a different set of required features necessary for a manufacturer to include in a Blu-ray player that will support a specific profile. Profile 1.0 was available on all Blu-ray player models released before November 1, 2007 and is now deprecated in favor of the new Final Standard Profile, also known as Profile 1.1 or BonusView. Although Profile 1.0 players are no longer being manufactured, you may occasionally find an older unit still being sold at a retailer or for sale used. Profile 1.0 players don't support picture-in-picture video commentary, a small window of video commentary in the corner on top of the main playback, often for director or actor commentary and other special features.

BD Profile 2.0, also known as BD-Live, is the third and most full-featured of all the profiles.  On top of the enhancements added to Profile 1.1, Profile 2.0 includes a set of secondary audio and video decoders, a 1 GB cache of local storage capability, and an internet connection.