No doubt that Apple's new iPod models and their pricing have created problems for many of its competitors. Amongst these, Microsoft - whose Zune device was initially expected to retail for around $300 - has decided not to make any statement about the price of the device. As the iPod is the acknowledged market leader, it is Apple that sets the bar for prices, and it looks like those new prices mean lower margins for many manufacturers.

Meanwhile, while Microsoft is deciding how to price the Zune, Wal-Mart - the retail giant - has apparently made a small mistake, and has posted the Zune up on their site, along with its price. Whoops. According to the Wal-Mart site at the time, the new device from Microsoft had a retail price of $284.00.

Of course, this did not last long, and the page has long since been removed, but it was up long enough for everyone to see. And if that is the price for the new Zune, then Microsoft is going to have an even tougher challenge in front of them. Not only was the device not as well received as they would have liked, but it will also cost more than an iPod with similar capabilities, except for the wireless sharing.

Furthermore, if Microsoft did intend to come out with that price, they may have to change it now, as everyone has seen it, and no doubt that all the other former partners, or competitors are already adjusting their strategies.