I Link You

Zune is here!!!

Just as Jobs announced the new Apple toys, Microsoft finally launched Zune, its portable media player device. All the big companies are going for connected entertainment or technology from your palm to your home. It's not about isolated gadgets anymore but a seamless integration between all technology devices.

Sounds a little sci-fi? Not really. Microsoft's new product, Zune, may be pointing in the right direction for the deep-connected music experience. With Zune, you can share your music between Zune devices with your friends (3 plays for 3 days) and get playlists and recommendations instantly.

Specs? 30 gigs of HD storage, 3 colors, 3.75" inch QVGA, FM radio, digital radio, tons of loaded codecs (audio and video)... and Wi-Fi!!!!!

Now Wi-Fi is how your Zune device will communicate with other Zune devices in the vicinity. Apple has yet to put Wi-Fi connectivity in its IPOD devices, so this may be the huge advantage for Microsoft. With Microsoft's partnership with MTV, there will be enough content to satisfy any trendy and pop culture-oriented teen. Also, the Wi-Fi connectivity will enable Microsoft to update the platform to bring location-based services, X-box Live, and other data services.

However, the big stickler is that Microsoft will retail this device for $399. That's the same price for a 60 gig video IPOD. Personally, I'd rather have more storage (about two times Zune's storage capabilities), so I expect many consumers to turn away just because of price. Since it is a first generation device, there will probably be minimum features besides sharing playlists, recommendations, songs, music player, and access to music store. If Microsoft could get VOIP and the plethora of other services (gaming, location-based, email, etc) onto these devices and maybe improve the design, Zune could be a winner in the future.

Regardless (I understood that my stolen IPOD as a sign that I was not meant to own an Apple device), Zune is on my top 10 wishlist for Christmas. Everyone take note. ;)

posted by Koh @ 10:02 AM