While most personal media players are shifting focus to features like internet browsing and applications, Microsoft’s Zune HD remains singularly focused.
In this age of the super super super smartphones (is that enough supers Google?) it’s refreshing to see people who don’t think having multiple devices is a problem.
Microsoft stands by the Zune as a no frills media player.
The features that are specific to the Zune show it’s focus on media playback. The new mediacentric features include 720p playback (Through a connected HDTV), Xbox 360 integration, and HD radio playback. Microsoft’s Michael Yaeger gave a brief demo of the 720p playback.
Zune Pass, a monthly music subscription service, is another feature focused on a better media experience.
The service gives owners unlimited access to the Zune marketplace’s large library of music. In the video below, Michael describes how Zune has evolved from just a device to much more than that.
All in all the Zune does bring some interesting ideas to the table. The subscription service is personally very appealing, but I think it could benefit from the inclusion of television content. As for the prospect of carrying a separate device for media, I’m still not sure. The benefits of such a setup are significant, but I think that such a device should be made with the unlimited content of the internet in mind.
What do you think? Do you accept the one device solution? Do you need to own your music or do you like the idea of subscribing?
5 Responses to “Can the Zune Stand Alone?”
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Hey Rob — where’s the video?
Sorry about the error! We’ve got the video up and going now. Enjoy!
I own the Zune 2nd Gen 80GB, and I love it. I also recently did a public relations campaign for class focused around the Zune HD.
Personally, I prefer to own my music and I don’t use the Zune Pass. However, I know that a lot of people out there really love using it to supplement their current music library. Because Zune doesn’t have a lot of apps, overall it is meant to just be about immersing yourself in your media, which I like. I have a BlackBerry filled with apps. My mp3 player doesn’t need that too. There is a really great video online comparing the iTouch and the Zune HD by PC Mag (http://bit.ly/12wy2L). If you aren’t an Apple fanatic (like me) then I think the Zune HD is a good choice.
Hey Rob — where's the video?
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