Microsoft’s Zune - digital media player

Microsoft has decided to enter the digital media player fray with its introduction of “Zune”.  Zune is Microsoft’s answer to Apple’s iPod.  Microsoft joins many other companies trying to shrink Apple’s grip on the digital media market.

Zune is a 30 GB digital media player with wireless capabilities.  There is technology with the Zune device that allows users to swap music wirelessly.  In addition to swapping music Zune users can also swap pictures.  Zune features a built-in FM tuner, an illuminated 3-inch LCD video screen which displays pictures and videos. You can also watch photos and videos in the “landscape view” thus providing a larger viewpoint.  You can also personalize the device with themes or personal photos.

Zune will be centered around an online music store dubbed “Zune Marketplace.” The marketplace is where users have access to a huge selection of music as well as the ability to purchase songs and sync it on to the player. You can purchase songs individually or use a “Zune Pass” subscription will give you unlimited downloads for a flat fee. 

Zune software can also import existing photos, music, and videos including entire playlists from Windows Media Player and iTunes.

Microsoft’s Zune can hold up to 7,500 songs, 25,000 photos or 100 hours of video.  The player is available in 3 colors (black, white & brown) and supports a variety of formats.  No release date was announced but it is expected that the device will be available this upcoming 2006 holiday season.

Microsoft Zune features:

· Wireless Zune-to-Zune sharing · Large color screen · 30GB
· Built-in FM tuner · Zune Pass · Personalization

 

Zune - Black

Zune - Brown

Zune - Settings Screen (White)  and Landscape View (Black)