Microsoft Shedding Zune Features Already?

At a speculative level, Microsoft is reportedly already shedding features from its Apple iPod rival portable media player. According to the crumbs of data available Microsoft's Zune will be delivered in 30GB and 60Gb variants, with a Pyxis version to compete iPod Nano all devices sharing common elements under the Alexandria umbrella, a service similar to Apple's iTunes Media Store. Additional technical information reveal that the products will feature Wi-Fi capability, support for XNA gaming content and video features and even FM tuner.

The speculative as yet portable device will integrate hardware options meant to give it an edge on the 75% controlled Apple market it will emerge on. The 50% larger screen space compared with iPod will serve to deliver high resolution video content.

But rumors have emerged claiming that inside Microsoft discussions rise to simplify the embryonic project's accessory. Various media reports describe a decision from the Redmond Company to delay Zune's video features, making the portable music player a less attractive iPod alternative.

Microsoft has denied the rumors classifying them as speculative. One Microsoft spokeswoman commented that the company possesses no details that it whishes to share with the public at this time.