Microsoft announced its latest iteration of the Zune line last May 26, the Zune HD. It’s got 3.3-inch, 480 x 272 OLED capacitive touchscreen display, built-in HD Radio receiver, HD output through a proprietary dock, and the ability to integrate into Xbox and Xbox live so we should see some gaming potentials for this device. Not much about the Zune has been disclosed by Microsoft as of now as they’re currently saving it for E3. According to the company, at E3 “attendees will see first-hand how Zune integrates into Xbox LIVE creating a game-changing entertainment experience”.

The zune HD’s features doesn’t come short of what’s out there; wifi connectivity, a modified Internet Explorer optimised for multitouch functionality, and a 16:9 widescreen display

Based on the specs and features, it seems like this is going to be Microsoft’s response to the growing popularity of the iPod touch. Some have even claimed that this will have the potential to beat the touch’s ever growing sales. But as of now, the only thing that’s sets the two apart is that one has mainstream application support while the other doesn’t. So unless Microsoft comes up with a decent app store and vast developer support, I doubt that it would have substantial sales over the year let alone beat iPod touch sales. And on top of that, if you compare a device that has all the bells and whistles and one that has less, yet has the ability to install apps, most people would go for the latter since it is open to newer features. Bottomline is, Microsoft should stop making beefed up devices, go back to basics such as stability and ergonomics, open it up to developers, and they might just see a large chunk of the market share.

What do you think about the new Zune HD? Feel free to comment

-jem

source: Engadget