Zune updates Originals store with new designs

Here's a tip. If you want your Zune Originals etching to appear as silver on black, you'll need to grab a model with a black backplate like the black Zune 16 or Zune 120.

(Credit: Microsoft)

If you're going to go with an underdog like Zune, you may as well let your freak flag fly high by getting your player engraved. The Zune Originals online store, which went live last year, allows you to order your Zune MP3 player directly and receive an engraving of artwork or custom text on the back of the device.

There are new designs to select from, as well as new colors and capacities of third-generation Zune. While the Zune Originals engraving launched as a free service last year, the customization will now cost you an extra $10-$15 (depending on your design) on top of the retail price of your Zune.

It may be worth it, however, since Microsoft is stating that the only way for customers to currently get their hands on red, green, pink, and blue versions of the new 16GB Zune is to order directly through the Zune Originals online storefront. Brick and mortar stores will only be seeing the black versions of the new 16GB and 120GB third-generation Zunes (at least, for now).

[yprtb]

kool, i love my zune. I especially like the free firmware updates and the games that are now available.

[aka_tripleB]

I have never seen the green Zune in stores at all. I think the only way to ever get it was through Zune Originals.

[wmyinzer]

CNet needs to tkae the Zune as an extremely serious threat to the dominance of the iPod. The Zune itself now includes a broad range of games (some of which are multiplayer), an aesthetic built-in clock, a password mode, the ability to search/download new songs from the Marketplace, as well as all the features it has had from previous generations such as a customizable background, Wi-Fi, a twist-interface, and state-of-the-art navigation with the Zune Pad.

The Zune software is even more delicious now. Now only did they make it COMPLETELY SUPERIOR to iTunes in the last generation, they made iTunes look primitive in the this generation.Miixview actually includes a service like the "Genius list", plus more relevant features such as which albums, songs you may like, and which other Zune users match your tastes. Along with being even more fun to look at, the software updates all my music and fixes any metatags perfectly. I couldn't ask for much more from the Zune team. They've done an excellent job, and I think anyone who claims iTunes is anywhere near superior should play around with the Zune software, and get back to me. THe only thing iTunes has over Zune is a wider selection of music and videos.

...but hey, I have a Zune Pass, and my new addition of 900+ songs for $15 has sounded pretty sweet. =]

[kboateng]

I second that wmyinzer...The zune is here to stay and do some damage as well.