Sony recently opened a new Blu-ray factory in the suburbs of Sydney, and however you may feel about the format itself, the automatized precision in the creation of BDs is still a marvel.

Charlie Brewer from News Limited walks you step by step (16 worthwhile photos in all) through the whole process as robots transform gem-like polycarbonate granules into laser-readable storage. Humans are present, of course, but they're mostly around to walk through dust rooms and try not to hinder the machines.

The lead shot? It's of the final product being boxed for retail. [news au via Kotaku]