Brand New [WEDNESDAY]

Zoom to check out Zune (or: Let your inner DJ run wild)

Wednesday, November 15, 2006

We knew the day would come. Someone had to throw their hat into the ring.

Introducing Zune, Microsoft’s reply to iPod. Funny, this little gadget looks very much like an iPod. . . hmmmmm.

Moving on. Microsoft launched Zune yesterday, and it is pretty cool. We’re fairly sure they may have some kinks to work out, since it’s first generation, but there are some awesome extra features that will get the folks at Apple thinking.

Zune holds 30 GB worth of music, pics and vids. It’s got a bright, 3-inch LCD screen. And super cool-looking accessories, including docks, cases, speakers, remotes, a home A/V pack, and more. Now here’s where it gets funky. Zune has a built-in FM radio, AND Wireless Zune to Zune sharing. So you can send your fave tunes, home-grown tracks and pics to your Zune-toting pals. Connectivity range is up to 30 feet.

You can import your media from iTunes and Windows Media Player in loads of formats - WMA, MP3, AAC; photos in JPEG; and videos in WMV, MPEG-4, H.264. So unlike iPod, there’s no converting of files necessary, and no need to add a new program to your computer.

It’s worth a look, even if you think you’re seeing your iPod’s double in the mirror.

www.zune.net/en-us