Zune Goes International

Microsoft will make Zune available to international users on markets outside of the United States starting today, November 19th, 2009. However, this is valid only for the Redmond company’s Zune-branded service and not for the actual digital media players. The software giant launched its own devices designed to tackle the iPod and climb to the second position on the digital media player market behind Apple in the second half of 2006. Three years later, Microsoft has made little progress with efforts to position itself as a strong Apple competitor in terms of Zune vs. the iPod, but is making steps to internationalize the service built around the devices, via an Xbox LIVE update.

On November 19th, members of the Xbox LIVE community worldwide will be able to access not only social networking hotspots such as Facebook, Twitter, but also Last.fm and Zune video, which is set up to offer instant-on HD on Xbox 360 consoles. In this manner, the Redmond company is making another step forward with its vision to expand the Zune service beyond the Zune devices, to PCs, mobile phones, and TVs, as a part of its comprehensive strategy aiming to connect the three main screens customers use today.

“Zune video on Xbox LIVE offers a full-fidelity experience with instant-on HD in 1080p and 5.1 channel surround sound. No waiting for downloads or buffering, it’s there at the press of a button. You can also share the experience with up to seven friends through voice chat and Avatar integration on the TV screen — it puts a whole new spin on movie night,” Microsoft noted.

Christine Heckart, general manager for TV, video and music marketing at Microsoft, noted that the Zune service would be offered to Xbox LIVE customers in no less than 18 new markets, such as UK, France, Germany and Australia, according to Financial Times (via LiveSide). “The strategy and vision of Zune is to continue to build out that full entertainment experience,” Ms Heckart explained. “This is a very important step for us to introduce Zune to new consumers around the world.”

No word when, or most importantly if, Microsoft makes the Zune devices available for purchase to customers around the world. Zune HD, the third generation of the software giant’s digital media players, and most impressive to date, is currently limited only to US customers.