X-bit labs

Microsoft’s Zune to Launch on November, 14.

Category: Multimedia

by Anton Shilov

[ 07/31/2006 | 10:34 PM ]

As possible player refreshes from Apple Computer at the WWDC approach, more and more details about Microsoft’s Zune players emerge to steal some attention from probable new iPods. The latest unofficial information claims that the media players from the software giant will be released on November, 14 and will feature more capabilities than the iPod players.

Apparently, the new device will have 3.75” screen, which suggests that the Microsoft Zune gadget with video capabilities will be fairly large in terms of dimensions, at least, compared to current iPod video, reports Engadget web-site. The first Zune will also come with FM tuner, something, which is not available on the iPod. Finally, 13 accessories for the player will be available at launch, which is scheduled on the 14^th of November, 2006.

Microsoft itself recently emphasized that it has no plans to copy the iPod and iTunes tandem, but to add certain functionality, which is unavailable today. Two advanced features to be offered with the Zune players will be video search and social networking allowing recommending or sharing digital content. Another essential capability of Zune players will be ability to connect in various ways to other Microsoft products, including its Xbox 360 gaming system and personal computer software, such as Windows Media Center operating systems.

Earlier it was reported that Microsoft’s Zune player will be available in three colours with a duotone approach on each. The device will contain a hard disk drive as well as some functionality, not currently available on competing products, such as Apple iPod or Creative Zen, including ad-hoc music sharing between a group of people in the range of the device as well as digital radio, thanks to Wi-Fi connectivity. Microsoft Zune 30GB will cost as much as $399, an earlier news-story read. Along with the Zune device, Microsoft is expected to launch its new online music store.

Microsoft did not comment on unofficial details of the player.