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 Microsoft has just revealed via press wire new details regarding the latest iterations of their Zune media player. Aside from the previously reported Zune 2.0, the company also announced a set price for the two offerings of their Flash Zune model.
Zune 2.0 will carry an 80 GB HD, a 3.2 screen, and will cost US$ 249.99. The two Zune flash models will offer buyers with a choice between 4 GB and 8 GB capacities, and will cost US$ 149.99 and US$ 199.99 respectively. Both will be available in pink, green, black or glossy red.
MS further announced that the new Zunes will carry a new "Zune Pad" navigation button, with a touch-sensitive surface very reminiscent of Apple's iPod series. Another upcoming feature the company's announcing is a series of downloadable features, all available by this fall:
- Wireless sync: Zunes will automatically sync over consumers%u2019 home wireless networks with this new feature, aimed at ensuring that Zune owners always have the latest podcasts and other content ready to go when they%u2018re leaving home. Syncing with the collection on their PC happens via a home wireless network and will start on its own when the device is placed in its dock or plugged in to charge. Alternatively, the sync can be started manually.
- Extended wireless sharing: Share select full-length songs, albums, playlists, pictures and even audio podcasts from device to device. Consumers can now listen to any song received up to three times with no time restrictions, and they can now also pass along songs to other friends who have a Zune.
- Recorded television content to go: The Zune software will now automatically import broadcast content recorded on Microsoft Windows Media Center for Windows Vista Home Premium or Ultimate, so consumers can sync them onto their Zune and watch them wherever they go.
Moving along, the company also announced the beta launch of their Zune Social online community site. Zune social will enable Zune owners to share their musical tastes, and automatically updates based on whatever songs the user is currently tuning into on their player. Zune Marketplace has also been updated. Visitors are told that the online store now contains even more downloadable content, as well as a newer, easy-to-use layout.
Lastly, MS announced several new Zune-related accessories for this fall:
- Zune Home AV Pack: Home Dock with three faceplates to accommodate each Zune device, wireless remote, AC adaptor and composite AV output cable (US$ 99.99)
- Zune Dock Pack: Home Dock with three faceplates to accommodate each Zune device and AC adapter (US$ 49.99)
- Zune Car Pack: Redesigned FM transmitter/charger and dashboard grip pad (US$ 79.99)
- Zune Cable Pack: Sync cable, composite AV output cable and audio cable (US$ 39.99)
- Zune Premium Headphones (US$ 39.99)
- Zune Leather Case (US$ 49.99)
- Zune Sync Cable (US$ 19.99)
- Zune AC Adapter (US$ 29.99)
That's all to report for the moment. Check back again if more details are revealed for Microsoft's offering for this November.
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