Microsoft Zune iPod slayer now official

Stan Beer
Saturday, 22 July 2006 06:19

Your IT - Home IT

The rumour has finally been confirmed as fact. Microsoft plans to take on Apple's iPod with its own player being produced under a project named Zune.

Another rumour that has been confirmed is that the device will have Wi-Fi capability.

Whether the device will be branded Xbox or not, it is being produced by Microsoft's own hardware division under the stewardship of Xbox vice president J Allard and Robbie Bach, president of Microsoft's entertainment and devices group.

Thus far, all the "rumours" leaked two weeks ago, have been confirmed as fact. However, aside from Wi-Fi capability, the only other advantage being touted for the new Microsoft player is that it will have a better screen than that of iPods.

It also appears that the new Microsoft and MTV joint music store Urge will be pitted against iTunes.

It will be interesting to see how Apple reacts to the news that it's game on.

New wireless iPods, with better screens, or even an iPhone are probably not too far away. Regardless of that, market analysts are sceptical of Microsoft's ability to make a serious dent in Apple's staggering iPod market share. However, underestimating Microsoft is mistake that no competitor can afford to make.