Microsoft Zune Review – the Future of Mp3 and Digital Media Players?

Most consumers Earlier this year, the idea of an MP3 player with the Microsoft brand alien. After all, what could the software giant to the iPod dynasty that Windows Media hardware partners such as Creative, iRiver, Samsung and was not able to do? Well, we all knew that after Microsoft’s September 14 announcement, the Zune would be a different type of portable media players, one that integrates wireless technology for Zune to Zune sharing of files, and the Market in a closed ecosystem functions such as iTunes Zune. The hard disk device, white, black, brown or love-it/hate-it comes, has entered the real world and find most users, especially beginners, thanks to an excellent user interface, Nice integration with Zune Marketplace software and content quality.

Meanwhile, we all know the basics of the Zune: it’s an MP3 player with 30 GB of photos and video easy 3-inch (4:3) is, and costs $ 249. 99 (unless you buy it on buyazune. Com.) It runs on a customized version of Portable Media Center software (Windows CE) and features the same intuitive navigation twist as players like the Toshiba Gigabeat S.

While similar to many other players in terms of its feature set – music, video and photo playback, plus an FM tuner – what sets him apart is its integrated Wi-Fi chip, to look for and may differ from other Zune-sters will. This feature allows the exchange of use of music and photos (but not video) in the same room. Shared photo files, on the other side have no restrictions. We would be pleased to see Wi-Fi expanded so that you synchronize or purchase music wirelessly (or even Zunes played all over the world), but with the device, do not see why Microsoft will start small. So far, the Zune experience out of the box and beyond has been predictable and solid. Wi-Fi or not, is an excellent media player.

Quick, in the box and its contents: the Zune packaging is minimal but has flare. In fact raise the Zune out of the box by pulling the belt brown (nice touch) and the headphones and USB cable are included rubber anywhere until you realize the flaps adjacent to the Zune lift open. Plus, you get a case before, a software CD, some guides, and a sticker on the packaging. While we were pleased to see more – such as an AC adapter – the introduction of Zune experience is well done.

The colors are subdued and the shell has a translucent matte finish, and most importantly, the body does not attract fingerprints (though the screen is). The double-shot effect of the secondary colors (green in the brown version, bluish on the black translucent on the white) definitely gives the player visual dynamism. The battery lasts up to 14 hours for audio. Interestingly, the back says in small print: “Hello from Seattle.” The Zune, which is manufactured by Toshiba but completely developed by Microsoft, original-looking player with a unique style.

It is a robust device that the scratches, dents will stand, and bruises, but is the main seam of the device, as it may explode if opened after a hard fall. The body is minimal and no buttons on the side, a switch and a headphone jack on top and a proprietary USB port of accessories in the bottom. The screen and main controller are surrounded by a thin metal inlays, while the three control buttons dead simple (the small dedicated back and play / pause buttons are flush with the body).

In general, a good Zune portable media device with good playback performance, a fast processor is designed and a great interface. Wi-Fi sharing has worked well, but future owners should know its format support, especially for videos, is limited. The Zune looks like a good fit for MP3 player novices, though we hope Microsoft addresses issues and make the Zune usable as a hard disk, extend video support include DRM (which will do if your own video store opens ) and open a real Wi-Fi network. The foundation looks good, however, and those who are not interested in version 1 of Zune can expect improved versions 2, 3, and beyond.

This review was brought to you by CNET.

If your interest in Microsoft’s Zune, I would recommend http://www. buyazune. com, because they consistently provide the best prices for all models and accessories for the Zune.