Microsoft Corp. (MSFT) plans to release its answer to Apple Computer Inc.'s (AAPL) iPod-the Zune player, in time for the holiday season in the hopes that they can move ahead in the digital music market.
J. Allard, vice president for design and development at Microsoft was quoted in this NYTimes.com article as saying, “With Zune, we are not simply delivering a portable device. We are introducing a new platform that helps bring artists closer to their audiences and helps people find new music and develop new social connections.”
Although rumors about the new product have been discussed since spring yesterday was the first time the device was shown publicly.
The Zune will be able to play video files and songs in the MP3 format, along with music and video bought through a new service called Zune Marketplace. That service will also have a subscription plan, though Microsoft executives declined to give pricing details. The device will not play content bought from the iTunes Music Store of Apple.
The Zune, which is being manufactured by Toshiba Corp. (TOSBF.PK) will have 30 gigabytes of memory, an FM radio tuner and a 3-inch screen, larger than the iPod’s 2.5-inch screen. The Zune will come in white, black and brown, but additional colors and configurations are expected to arrive next year.
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