Microsoft released its competitor against Apple’s iPod that it called Zune. Zune has not got any success that Microsoft’s products are famous for such as Windows and Office. But Zune claimed to be a tough challenge to iPod and forced Apple to change its strategy.
Now on May 26 2009 Microsoft annouced that it will soon be releasing a new version of zune that would be touch screen (obviously intented to compete with iPod Touch). Micrsosoft calls it the Zune HD and offers several features not found on the iPod Touch, including an OLED display, HD radio, and high-definition video playback (using an optional dock accessory). The Zune HD will be the first Zune to include Internet Explorer web browser as it offers WiFi technology. The Zune HD’s browser is optimized for the touch screen with an onscreen keyboard, but there’s no word on whether it will be capable of streaming Flash media (used by sites such as YouTube and Pandora), a capability that is currently lacking in the Safari browser for the iPhone and iPod Touch.
Microsoft also announed that it woulod offer online video download from its market place. Zune is also the first Mp3 player to offer HD(high defination video output).
Here is a little video i found on Youtube by Cnet i found on their site that could be useful to understand that working of the device.
There’s still plenty we don’t know about the Zune HD, such as pricing, capacity, or color options. Given the Zune’s history, it’s fair to assume the Zune HD will be priced aggressively against the iPod, and include more flexibility when it comes to colors and personalization. It is said that Zune HD may be priced less that the iPod Touch. A low-cost Zune HD would also put the product on par with other non-iPod touch-screen-based MP3 players on the market, such as the Samsung P3, the Cowon S9, or the Iriver Spinn.
Zune HD is expected to release at the end of the year 2009. Till then we must wait patiently.
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
how much does it cost?
how much does it cost?
This may cost near 200$ and is not available yet…
This may cost near 200$ and is not available yet…