14 DAY TRIAL // On October 2, Microsoft introduced the next generation of Zune digital media players. Zune 2.0 is not a response to Apple's new lineup of iPods released just a month ago, but simply the natural evolution of the device. The Redmond company revealed for some time that it was cooking an overhaul to Zune, and the two new models unveiled are nothing more than a consequence of the planned growth. Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates and Corporate Vice President J Allard focused not only on Zune 2.0 but also on the new release of firmware for the players and the new version of the online store accompanying the devices.
"Twenty years ago we bet the company on an integrated productivity suite of word processing, spreadsheets and presentations, and we changed the way people work," Gates said. "Today we're making big bets on games, music, video and connecting these entertainment experiences to help change the way people play." Microsoft is betting strong on two new features for Zune 2.0. First off, all devices will synchronize with PCs via Wi-Fi connections, streamlining the process. And on top of that, Zune 2.0 models come with the new Zune Pad, a touch-sensitive button.
Concomitantly with Zune 2.0, the Redmond company also delivered a firmware update. Microsoft promised that the current over 1 million Zune 1 users will have automatic access to new features, as well as the revamped computer and device software. "By tapping into customers' passion for music with Zune Social, we're starting to change the game," Allard said. "This lets us start building a new, more valuable kind of relationship with consumers that, combined with other Zune innovations, will start to drive the entire music industry forward."
Essentially, there are two new models of Zune, although one comes in a couple of variants. Microsoft is delivering now a Zune 2.0 device equipped with an 80GB traditional hard-drive, as well as two versions of the device featuring 4 GB and 8 GB flash memory. The 80 GB model comes only in black and will set you back a cool $249.99, while the flash-based Zune 2.0, delivered in pink, green, black and glossy red, will cost $149.99 and $199.99 for the 4GB and the 8GB mode, respectively.
"Together with the original Zune 30GB, the new devices round out the player family and lets users choose the size, color or price that suits them best. Every Zune device includes built-in wireless features and an FM tuner, and they all have a bright color display that is perfect for showing off album art, pictures, videos and podcasts. All devices have been given distinctive new menus, and it is easy to customize the background screen with a personal picture. Ensuring that existing Zune owners benefit from the advances in this release, all Zune 30GB devices will be automatically updated with all the new features as well as the new device software design this fall", reads a fragment of the Microsoft press release announcing Zune 2.0.
