Along with confirming that the Zune product line would evolve with the addition of Zune HD by the end of 2009, Microsoft also provided confirmation for a strategy to expand the Zune service to additional platforms, beyond the current limitations. In this sense, the Redmond company will expand the Zune video service to Xbox LIVE. The new service will be made available internationally in the fall of 2009 through Xbox LIVE, the software giant informs. In addition to North America, where the Zune video service is already available, members of the Xbox LIVE community in select European markets will also be able to enjoy the new content.

“We announced that we will be coming to Xbox, taking over the existing video marketplace and bringing a rich new experience with new features. This is the next step in our strategy to broaden Zune as an entertainment service for Microsoft, stay tuned for more details at E3! There is more goodness to come, but we wanted to take a moment to announce what we are working on both on the hardware, and software services front,” revealed Brian Seitz, group marketing manager of Zune.

According to Microsoft, Zune is right on track to become a premium partner in the Xbox LIVE Video Marketplace. As Seitz stated, the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) next week will serve as the stage for Microsoft to showcase the integration between Zune and Xbox LIVE. The Redmond company pointed out that the first slot in the Xbox graphical user interface in the Xbox LIVE Video Marketplace would be reserved for Zune, making it easier for users to access the TV and film content via the platform.

“We are really excited to bring the new Zune to market later this year, and we think the capabilities of the device are pretty cool. For those that have not had a chance to check it out yet, Zune HD will feature a HD Radio receiver, HD video out capabilities, an OLED screen with multi touch, and an Internet browser,” Seitz added.