Comments on: If the rumors are true, buy the Zune HD

Have you heard about the rumored Zune HD? Well, Don Reisinger thinks it's a better buy than the iPod

[monkeyfun14]

I would love to have one

[Random_Walk]

Does it come with unicorns farting and mermaids menstruating, too?

Sorry, but if even half that rumor were true (and not mere vapor cooked up by PR creatures and "leaked"), the device would end up costing more per unit than a frickin' PS3.

Come back to Earth, people. This thing is mere vapor until somebody somewhere coughs up photographs. Notice I said "photoGRAPH", not "photoSHOP". Thx in advance.

[mikestatic1]

Just another piece of Microsoft JUNK over-hyped by people with Mac envy.

The Zune is so much better than an iPod... and that is why it is an irrelevant device. Set your standards a little higher.

[monkeyfun14]

@mike

The Zune does more then a iFad

[Spartan_458]

So would I. I've been considering an iPod Touch for a while now, but if this is even half-true, I'll buy one. Chances are, it'll be less expensive, have more features and perform better.

[seven7dust]

well it depends on the software and interface more than the hardware itself
sure hardware matters but this is a touchscreen device
and Microsoft and touchscreen don't go well together
example :- Windows Mobile 6.1 or even 6.5 , tablets etc. !
But I wont judge it till it releases !

[CmilkVa00]

I use a Archos 605wifi and this is the first tru attempt to purchase a new device. Y because it is able to hook up to the TV that's y.

[thelemurking]

I was considering a Zune awhile back, but the more I felt let down with my Samsung Instinct, the more I wanted an iPod Touch. I cannot imagine a better device than the iPod Touch. Wireless sync will be awesome. HD radio... really? That's still on the fringe in most markets. Most stations cannot justify the expense of going HD when less than 1% of stereos are capable of receiving the HD broadcasts. Sure it's great to carry multiple programing in the same carrier frequency, but what good does it do if no one can hear it? It's a hard thing to sell, and if no one is listening to the HD station, then it makes it hard to put commercials on there and without commercials, stations don't make money.

As for the mini-HDMI out, that's pretty a pretty sweet deal. I can't imagine how practical it would be though. With such limited space as 16gb / 32gb, having HD quality movies would eat up a lot of space and why would you bother playing it off the Zune? I kept Hellboy 2 on my iPod Touch for about 3 days before I deleted it. It took up way too much space. I can play movies from my iPod Touch through my Altec Lansing speakers, but I have not once connected it to my TV. I think the same would go for the Zune, although it would be quicker and easier in the Zune's case.

Games are where this thing would shine. If it can handle games better than the iPod Touch, that's going to be the big selling point. As much as I love my iPod Touch, I would love to see Microsoft exceed the rumors with this one.

[SNOOP_ROCA]

The only way it will EVER be better than the ipod touch is if the screen is as responsive, cuz alot of touch screen devices have CRAZY cool features, but the screen sux so much it out weighs the features

[Groucho6]

Nothing made by Microsoft will ever be better than anything made by Apple. The fact that you would recommend vaporware over an established product leads one to question your motivations or sanity.

[monkeyfun14]

He said if it comes out chill the hell out.

And Zune was always better then a iPod anyways sorry to break it to you.

[Electro_Fox]

Wow Groucho, keep drinking the (expensive apple flavored) kool aid... Somebody's cranky and needs a nap...

[d3vildog69]

Dude, its an MP3 player... chillax. Its all personal preference as to what is better than the other, you like Apple, i like Zune, doesn't effect you'r life at all bro.

[SomeoneWhoShouldKnow]

One word: Mouse

[d3vildog69]

LMAO @ SomeoneWhoShould

[rhomboid1]

Yes, the iPod is so superior...Not At All.

The Creative ZEN M, X-Fi and yes the Zune, not to mention the Cowon and the Archos all have superior playback of sound and video over the iPod. You'd think that Apple would pay attention to the rumblings of consumer and numerous side by side comparison articles and come out with an iPod/iTouch with comparable sound quality and video screen image. But, no way...instead Apple put its efforts into smoke and mirrors with its fancy little touchy touch screen and scroll/flip the Album Art(which by the way I Like). OK, lets get back to the basics, a portable music player should play music with some sort of supercilious posturing for $200++ dollars...Yes? - - are you even listening Apple Inc.

[quackadilly]

So......Windows is an established product. OSX must be crap then right?

[LE_Studios]

Couldn't said it better then myself. Let's not forget Microsoft failed products: WebTV, All In One Satellite & WebTV, MSN Direct Watch, 5.8GHz Uniden MSN Messenger Phone and yeah Zune also Xbox 360( RROD & E-74) Microsoft waste more money on Ad Campaigns then they could have used that to fix their screwed up Vista OS, but instead they going to release Windows 7 and yes you have to pay full price!I'm really feel good right now I ban Microsoft from my house. I got a Mac and everything works fine.

[Renegade Knight]

You just made my day. Not even Apple makes things as good as Apple if you listen to what MacFanatics think Apple really makes. While I will happily avoid MicroSoft I do it knowing full well they do have some good products.

[thelemurking]

Remember that Apple digi cam? or that Apple Newton? (I actually liked the Newton until I got a Dauphin) Last I checked, AppleTV wasn't so hot either. How many people really bought the mighty mouse? Whatever happened to the Mac Cub (although I loved that design)

Do you even remember the OS before OS 9 and OS X? It was horrible... horrible horrible! Oh yeah, the Macintosh Portable! That was a real big hit! They really nailed that one!

[Get_a_life_Leo]

Microsoft rumours for a product that should have been released 18 months ago..... Apple lost the OS war, Microsoft lost the PMP war. The crumbs left over can still support strong businesses (Macs and Zunes) and competition is good. However, thinking a new Zune will impact iPod sales is rather improbable.

[monkeyfun14]

With good marketing it can.

[kelmon]

"With good marketing it can."

I think you have too much belief in both the concept of marketing and Microsoft's ability to make use of it. The iPod is the Kleenex of the PMP world and I really don't see Microsoft overturning that.

[bajanx]

Microsoft did it with the Xbox 360 and Xbox Live. Took 2 Generations but they took world domination away from Sony and it PS brand. Zune stumbled out of the gates with a great device that looked like it was 2 Generations back. That hurt the Zunes image. They have been making strides and this latest Incarnation is enough to have Apple fanbois in an uproar and secreatly drueling/wishing. Don't worry i'm drueling too, so you guys are not alone. These Specs have pretty much been solidified by 3 Sites in the know following microsoft products. Its so obvious that Microsoft are the one leaking this info. I am a convert to the Zune and can't see myself returning to the likes of Ipod, you Apple Fanbois can join me on the wildside.

[Seaspray0]

I agree with you Leo. It's a matter of preportion. You could double zune sales and they would only make a minor impact on ipod sales. While the zune salesman would be screaming, "wow, our sales are through the roof", the ipod salesman would would be saying, "ehh, you've only dented our sales, and they're still insignificant to ours." That's my take on it.

[DavidAddison]

"The iPod is the Kleenex of the PMP world and I really don't see Microsoft overturning that."

So were Lotus 123, WordPerfect, and Novell. However, the point isn't about overturning any more. It's about being able to recognize a market opportunity and competing in it. You can say all you want about how bad or good Microsoft or Apple, all day (and some people do), but can't say they aren't competitors who like to compete.

That said, just because one clearly dominates the market doesn't mean others shouldn't try.

[ccmike72]

Kinda like Apple could double their market share and MS would yawn, while apple fan boys crap their pants. Kinda like that Seaspray0

[ccmike72]

just to clarify I was referring to OS market share

[TheStairMaster]

@Bajanx

using the 360 as an argument that M$ can break in to an emerging market with success is kind of hilarious, seeing as how they cant even make their machines right, coupled with the fact that they're losing ground as we speak to Sony. Many analysts put their units sold numbers as the same before the end of the year, and almost all say that the install base will be higher with the PS3 before the year closes, due to distorted 360 numbers from many buying multiple units to keep downtime to a minimum between repairs. World Domination, it is most certainly not.

[Seaspray0]

Exactly! ccmike. Just like that.

[NervClaX]

The difference between Microsoft and Apple is the same as the difference between Microsoft and Sony. Microsoft has billions of dollars in the bank and it can afford to launch products and support services at a huge loss for many years. Their business model is a war of attrition. Microsoft can afford to keep trying again and again until the other goes bankrupt.

This new ZuneHD will see greater success than the previous Zune just as XBox360 has seen greater success than the original XBox. Neither business unit is profitable yet, but time is on Microsoft's side. Besides, competition is good for consumers.

[RompStar_420]

Looks like a lot has been borrowed, ahemmm, stolen from iPods, even the aluminum casing.

Sorry, but I lack all respect for Microsoft, I fully understand that in Marketing, borrowing ideas and tweaking is acceptable as normal business, but screw that!!!

[monkeyfun14]

How would you design it then a piece of plastic off to the side a touchscreen hanging off the edge there is not much more you can do with a totally touch device. What if I said Apple ripped off surface which they did and just made pretty much a smaller version of it.

[rapier1]

Uh, the 2nd gen zunes also have an aluminium case. Quite a few other players do as well. Its not as if Apple invented the metal case.

[quackadilly]

Just becaused they wrapped aluminum around a portable music device does not mean that they pioneered aluminum casings.

[SidedPanic]

You're so right, it's unbelievable. Apple should of patented by aluminium by now.
(Sarcasm was used in the production of this post)

[NPGMBR]

Wow RompStar_420 that was the most iTardic statement I've heard in a long time.

[Renegade Knight]

I'm not tracking with you. The one and only iPod inovation was the scroll wheel. Everthing else was invented elsewhere and if I recall Apple didn't invent that. That leaves what? Nothing? The Zune has stolen nothing.

However Apple has certainly done a lot of borrowring ideas and tweaking as part of it's normal business. Actaully tweaking is what Apple does well. They tweaked the touch screen and gave us the touch. Pretty sweet tweaking even if you hate iPods.

[thelemurking]

Sure beats that cheap Chinese plastic they used on the 5g and the Nano's that got them into a class action lawsuit. That plastic scratched so easy that even the leather pouch that came with it made it look like you took sandpaper to the surface.

Of course the Apple apologists answer was always the same YOU SHOULD HAVE BOUGHT A CASE! Why? Why should I have to buy something else? I don't buy a case for my car? I don't cover any other product with the InvisibleShield. Fact was, Apple used a very very cheap and extremely scratch prone plastic. Whoopty F'n Do that the back was metal... I don't look at the damn back, I am looking at the front of the player, especially one designed to play videos. This was a huge let down with the 5g. After seeing the screens of other people with the 5g and Nanos, the first thing I did before I even completed my order with Apple was to order the InvisibleShield and have it ready to go when my 5g iPod shipped from China! Wonderful design flaw there Apple!

[thelemurking]

oh yeah RompStar... Remember how Apple "BORROWED" the interface for the iPod from Creative? I do believe Apple got in a tad bit of trouble over that one.

[mayo-on-a-bun]

Remember when Apple borrowed my Mac loving girlfriend and never brought her back? Maybe you don't recall, but from that point on I became an Apple Hater.

p.s. I miss you dearly Beatrice, please come back to me, with a new Zune HD for my suffering.

[JasonCe]

Zune HD will definitely be the best PMP ever (assuming the leaked specs are real). I can't wait to buy one.

Technically, Zune has always been better than iPod. Being the first major name in the market and good user experience kept iPod on top for a long time. But Zune kicks iPod's ass any day.

As you suggested Don, now the only missing piece is a universal xbox/zune/winmo marketplace, which will be ready pretty soon I hope.

[mikestatic1]

Yeah, that is why Zune is the top selling PMP. Oh, wait - that is the iPod. But that Zune is really great. Yep. Uh huh.

[monkeyfun14]

Mac isn't the top selling OS does that mean its a piece a ****? Must be.

[fooldog01]

DING DING DING DING ^^^^ WE HAVE A WINNER!!

People seriously don't think ANYTHING through before they say it anymore.

[fcz1]

It will be the best ever... assuming all of these RUMORS are true and they can keep the price the same or less than an iPod. I'll believe it when I see it and keep using my iPod.

[ccmike72]

This statement is a little coolaid-ish. Not sure on this best ever business. Can we even really call the PMP. Maybe some of the archos or zen devices. IMO a mp3 player that happens to play video is not a PMP. Maybe the touch? I can't say I have used it very much but seriously the regular ipod is no PMP.

[El_Segfaulto]

@mikestatic1

How about some reverse logic? Since Windows owns the marketshare for desktop OS, with your logic could one assume that Windows was the best operating system?

[SomeoneWhoShouldKnow]

Grouch6: The Microsoft Mouse and Keyboard has blown away the crap Apple ships, so don't say "ever" ever again.

[thelemurking]

Amen brother! With the exception of my gaming system which I am using a Saitek keyboard and a Razer mouse, and the Logitech MX Revolution at work, everything else is Microsoft. I love the old trackball mouse which is great for my bedroom computer... I love the old natural ergonomic keyboards... the keyboard I am using at work is the Wireless Entertainment 8000, but the mouse sits off to the side unless I need to charge my MX Revolution.

I did ditch my old sidewinder flight stick though for one from Logitech... but I still use the MS steering wheel on occasion.

[62Sparkplug]

"When you compare the rumored specs of the Zune HD to the iPod Touch, it's clear that they're SIMILAR on many levels. They both sport MULTITOUCH capabilities,. . ."

And the Zune HD will avoid violating the 200+ iPhone/iTouch patents [numerous ones regarding multi-touch capabilities] exactly how?

[monkeyfun14]

Microsoft has been using multitouch before iPhones development in surface and has the legal team to back up their case.

[Arthur Young]

Sorry monkey, but in 2005 Apple purchased Fingerworks and brought in Wayne Westerman whose 1999 dissertation on "Hand Tracking, Finger Identification, and Chordic Manipulation on a Multi-Touch Surface" was the basis for the original multi-touch patent, co-owned by the University of Delaware. Part of the employment/purchase price was co-ownership of the original multi-touch patents.

So. even though some of the latest multi-touch patent applications from Apple don't mention the original patent, they own it. It's not about iPhones, it's about the patents.

[62Sparkplug]

Microsoft's surface multitouch technology is a completely different type of technology that incorporates cameras in the machine's housing that records reflections of infrared light from objects and human fingertips on its surface.

As far as M$'s legal team being able to back up their case, let's hope they do better than they did recently (4/9/09) in the case involving UNILOC where M$ was assessed 388 million dollars damage in PATENT INFRINGEMENTS. Ouch!

[blusky08]

Everyone is forgetting that there will be a new iPod this year as well. It's capabilities may meet or exceed this fabled MS device. Either way, both products will have their pluses and minuses for individual consumers.

[Renegade Knight]

@Arthur Young

Seems like the University of Deleware should be releasing their work for the public good rather than privatising it.

In my view "Multi Touch" is just a simple variation of the touch screen to begin with. It's too obvious to patent. But I'm sure lawyers will argue this out when the time comes.

[Spartan_458]

I hope you guys know that Apple doesn't make the only multi-touch handheld out there. Apple doesn't have a complete and total stranglehold on multi-touch patents. Hell, it seems like they're being sued every other day for *violating* them.

[carolax]

More senseless comments by people who can't spell. Like it or not, Zune is a flop. Microsoft should stick to doing what they know how to do, as soon as someone figures out what that is.

[monkeyfun14]

A flop?

Zune kicks the iPods ass in features.

The new one will kick the iPod Touch's ass in features.

Mac OSX is a flop to if you want to look at it that way.

Competition is good sorry to break it to you.

[fcz1]

"Zune kicks the iPods ass in features."

And how is it doing in sales?

[SidedPanic]

'"Zune kicks the iPods ass in features."

And how is it doing in sales?'

Wow, yeh - great point. Why should we assign to the to the better minority, when we can conform to worse majority! OMG, Zune sux sooooo much because only a few million own the frickin thing - go apple, WooHoo!!!
(Sarcasm was used in the production of this post)

[thelemurking]

fcz1 by your logic that means that OS X is a flop ;)

[fcz1]

I think we need to define the word "flop". Tyler Perry movies may suck, but they make him gobs of money. Flop or not?

[pentest]

Come on now, be fair. Does any ipod have the squirts and the color to match?

[GEdwards69]

It may well beat the ipod on hardware features, but none of this matters one jot if the software and UI isn't intuitive, easy, quick and slick.

[monkeyfun14]

The UI is easier then the iPods is and quicker to navigate xP

[rapier1]

The device's UI is actually significantly better than the iPod. I know its hard to believe but its true.

I do disagree with the author's opinion about the iTunes store. The Zune Marketplace is pretty exaustive and is very easy to use. I've never really been a fan of iTunes though - I don't like having to base my purchase decision on a 30 second sample.

[SidedPanic]

I do find it odd that Mr Don wrote 'The Zune Marketplace is, in many respects, a joke. I've used it on numerous occasions and each time I end up missing the iTunes store' when his own website have continuinally noted how much better the zune marketplace is in comparison. Still, as he noted - that's just a software choice not a hardware choice, since you can still integrate your iTunes and Zune libraries now that apple have eventually stumbled upon the wonders of DRM free mp3s.
As for UIs, why are you speaking? It hasn't been tested by anyone yet, let alone you. This is the perfect example of apple fanboys trying to tear down a product just because it doesn't have a half eaten piece of fruit on the back.

[NPGMBR]

GE - When was the the last time you used Zune Marketplace?

[Dalkorian]

by monkeyfun14 April 16, 2009 3:55 PM PDT
The UI is easier then the iPods is and quicker to navigate xP

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Well, at least for 365 days a year, right? Just pray it doesn't live until the next leap year?

ROFLMAO.

Zune users are such losers! Did I just hear your masters whip cracking for you again?

Please apologists, don't bother explaining why anyone would desire a "HD" device with a screen this size on it. We don't want to know. Learning how to be stupider isn't a good thing.

[GEdwards69]

My comment was nothing to do with fanboyism. I merely passed comment that if (and take note of the word 'if') the gui isn't up tp scratch, no amount of top notch hardware can save the product.

Seeing as the product it still vapourware, and the article loosely focuses on hardware features, my comments are a fair and honest opinion, regardless of my preferences.

Hmmm....It does appear the Anti-apple league seem just as quick to attack as the fanboys

[monkeyfun14]

@dalkorian


Learn to use the word apologist properly.

How can I get paid for bashing MS like you do?

[rlorenz89]

Dalkorian, your ignorance is laughable. Pull your head out of your rear end and realize that competition is good for everyone, and that your silly little white earphones do not make you cool anymore. Everyone and their mothers have a pair, and, believe it or not, they do not make you special. You should thank Microsoft for keeping Apple on their toes regarding hardware advancements.

You do realize that your comments can be turned back on you, right? Why do you insist on defending Apple at all costs? Hopefully, one day, your master will let you out of your choke collar. Bring perspective to things; I've used both and prefer the Zune. My choice. I don't think MS is almighty, and I don't think that "Apple makes the best electronics ever, like, totally!" It's called logic. Try it sometime.

[dadsgravy]

I think everything Microsoft's doing today is the equivalent of a 50 year old buying a Corvette. The car's cool, but you're not.

[Seaspray0]

So buying a cool product doesn't make you cool? I agree.

[NPGMBR]

And thats the problem that Apple perpetuates in American society. You just ain't cool unless you can have the biggest house, the priciest car, the latest gadgets and lots of credit to buy you way into coolness.

Unlike many I pride myself on being in individual and no amound of marketing hype will ever change that because I don't buy to keep up with my neighbors......I buy what I like because it suits me and my budget.

[Renegade Knight]

Oh, but now you can finally afford the car. That's why it's 50 year olds buying them and not 18 year old "cool kids".

If an 18 year old did buy one. He's not no brains and no life. Or he got lucky and smart. That does happen once in a blue moon.

[thelemurking]

shut up dad or we won't change your diaper before your nap! the nurse called and said you aren't eating your jello.

So Microsoft products are the equivalent of a mid-life crisis? I'm sorry, but I can't see a bunch of 50 yr olds sitting around playing Halo 3.

[Lumiseon]

Agreed, NPGMBR.

[scottmichaelst]

"Don Reisinger is a technology columnist".....

Ha ha ha ha, oh, man.

[Dalkorian]

nice ... where'd you hear that?

;-)

[ofmyony]

Not a Don fanboy?

[The_happy_switcher]

The more important question is: Will it blend?

[BGXterra]

lol i wonder if it would leave the same black dust as the iphone

[thelemurking]

I've seen just about everything blend except for Chuck Norris. Chances are, it will blend.

[Dalkorian]

1. I'm sure it will blend - most things do. (except Chuck Norris - LOL - good one thelemurking!)

2. The dust from a zune is more toxic and therefore darker than the iphone due to the levels of malevolence and evil contained within the device itself. Some folks say each zune is imprinted with a Ballmer temper tantrum, which is how he now is able to make it through meetings without throwing chairs around.

3. The zune is currently outselling previous versions of the zune, but considering only 3 people prostituted themselves for proprietary M$ lock-in with the first version, it isn't saying much. Sorta like saying fista sp3 - w7 for the prostitutes and monkeys among us - is the most secure version of winblows ever, or a layer of chicken wire wrapped around you is a better bullet proof vest than being naked is.

Flame away artarded flamers, I am fireproof!

[Seaspray0]

@dalkrian. No stupid comment on the zune's popular brown color? Go refill your koolaid.

[gosmith7590]

BFD - the crappy Zune has only 4% of the MP3 market-share for good reason. If true, HD Radio will suck the life of out the Zune, because of poor battery life, simply doen't work, and iBiquity's confiscatory licensing fees. HD Radio is a farce! http://hdreadiofarce.blogspot.com

[monkeyfun14]

Mac only has 6% of the market does it make it a failure?

And Zune crushes every mp3 player in its class including iPods except the iPod Touch

[Seaspray0]

That must mean osx only has 7% of the market for the same good reason, right?

That marketshare arguement "just works", doesn't it?

[mkone_og]

Macs are targetted at the high end of the market and have very good margins. Apple is a hardware company, and in that respect is fairly successful in selling computers with very good margins, and subsequently, larger profits than all of its rivals (with the probably exception of Microsoft).

Zunes seems to be targetted at at least the same market as the iPods and have lower prices, and lower market share. They are probably more expensive to manufacture. The Zune division is making losses. Apple is making profits.

[seven7dust]

@monkeyfun - who has the other 94%marketshare is it HP or Del etc.l ?
in Computers Everyone has a small market share
Stop comparing Apple's and oranges !

[megustansalchichas]

"3D Xbox Games" -even for vaporware marketing this is a meaningless term at this point. so why are you repeating it without questioning it, like a shill for MS? you might as well say it contains flavor crystals and take it for granted that this would make it 'the best pmp on the market'.

[SidedPanic]

I agree, the specs are just guess work - 3D Xbox games in particular is made up nonsense. There have been zune avert leaks though and by that the 'zune hd' is pretty much confirmed - that along with the facts leaked about tegra leads to some educated guess on hd out and pixel density (and xbox integration) that really would impress if were true. The product itself looks pretty good, to be fair.

[Renegade Knight]

MicroSoft and Apple both need a hand held gaming platform.

[Dalkorian]

He forgot to include the M$ "fact" that it will ... uh ... "make you more of a man" and give you greater pleasure for longer in bed.

That tends to get M$ apologists' attention, since they are endowed like 8 year old girls and therefore need help that way.

[Seaspray0]

@dalkorian. If all you can do are stupid insults, I'm not impressed. It puts you on the same level as applerocks1969. If you can't go beyond the mindset of a 5 year old, then don't bother posting.

[professionaladventurer]

HD video? On a HANDHELD? Who f'ing cares? I mean is bragging so important to you tool using monkeys?

Remember how the rumored first ZUNE was going to crush the iPod. It looked pretty good until the iPod touch came out? I am pretty sure that is going to happen again.

[Ilgaz]

For real sci-fi action, I'd buy a Symbian/Media Friendly device and wait for handheld projectors become a bit more viable. That means watching a movie on a white surface such as wall which will be considerably bigger than a 3.5 inch experimental, not so stable LCD.

[Vegaman_Dan]

If the spec refering to HD output via the HDMI connection is true, then that alone would make a difference if you wanted to watch video on a larger screen. Perhaps it may be possible without paying $100 more for a proprietary cable as you do now for Apple?

Don't get so worked up over a rumor.

[Renegade Knight]

Just because you don't see the use doesn't mean there isn't one. Remember that Mini HDMI out? I've already done that in non HD with an Archos. The Zune sounds simpler with a higher quality TV out.....if its' real and not just rumor.

[shahamee]

I don?t care too much about Vaporware until i see it for reelzes. But I wish it would have more capacity, like 120GB if it is supposed to be a video monster. My beef with this article is Don's statement that iTunes is better than Marketplace. The Zune pass kills anything apple can offer. $1.29 a song? ARE U KIDDING ME? I get to download all the music I want via subscription, plus i get to keep 10 DRM free, for $14.99 a month. That's like 12-15 songs iTunes. Also, the Zune's UI, software and Marketplace are waaaaaay better than iTunes, in look and function. Every time someone walks by and I have Zune open on my monitor, they are like "Wow, what is that?" especially when the Now Playing screen comes on with the artist photos, etc.

[Dalkorian]

HA-HA.

Miss a monthly payment and see where all that music goes. I dare you.

I still can't believe people are willing to throw money away every month for an illusion. Subscription services are for people who haven't got any brains at all.

[monkeyfun14]

@Dalkorian

I get 10 drm songs forever as well and get to sample other music you get a 30 second clip to base your purchase decision on.

[Seaspray0]

Dalkorian does have a point on the subscription model. As long as you pay every month, you're pretty much unlimited. But the songs will stop working once you cancel your subscription. I'm not saying the model is good or bad, it's different. In a way, it's somewhat like paying for cable TV or XM radio (it works while you pay for it). Given the large number of people with cable TV, satelite, or XM radio, they are aware of how this works but still find it suitable to their needs.

[BamAlmighty]

PLEASE

Market share doesn't mean it is the best... so what if the Ipod owns the largest share of the MP3 market, Microsoft owns 88% of the OS market and the best Apple has done over the last 20 years is 10%. I guess that means Microsoft has the better OS.... right? most market share, better OS? Huh?

Oh that's right, the market share argument only matters when it is the product you are sack riding.

Remember when the XBOX came out? The PS2 sack riders said MS would flop and could never top anything Sony could put out, flash forward to today... Sony in denial about the PS3!

If MS keeps this under $300 at least for the 16gb, I'll be all over it.

[mikestatic1]

That price point may be out of your reach.

[Seaspray0]

That depends, mikestatic1. If he pays $800 for his laptop instead of $1,700, then he'll have plenty left over for it.

[pentest]

No, he will have to spending his time and money keeping that piece of crap $800 chunk of plastic operating.

Funny how you MS shills can't do anything but parrot MS talking points.

[pithenumber]

@pentest
Thinkpads are not crap and you can easily get one for $800

[Pishkado]

Objectively, Zune beats iPod.

Objectively, Mac OS beats Windows.

Since when has it ever been about that?

[xcal78]

There's no way you can use 'Objectively' with MS or Apple in the same sentence. That's pure opinions unless your picking the smallest market share ones to be the winners.

[t8]

I actually think it is about Microsoft whom many do not like.

[cusoman]

Ever since generation2, Zune has been a better product than ipod. Ipod just rides on the hype and that is the only reason it is still number one.

Zune suffers from the people that just love hating MS. I am not a fan of MS either, but when they have a good / excellent product I will admit to it. Zune is excellent!

[mikestatic1]

Give me a break. With a big name behind it, a superior product will dominate the marketplace. The reason it doesn't isn't because people hate Microsoft - they hate the Zune.

[rapier1]

Actually, most reviewers place the 2nd gen ZUne to be the equal of or superior to equivalent iPods. Sort of stunned everyone, including the reviewers. One of the big problems Zune faces is that the accessory ecosystem just isn't there.

[Random_Walk]

@rapier1: please show us "most reviewers". Otherwise, you're grasping far too tightly at an appeal to authority.

[NPGMBR]

Random - If you wanna see the reviews all you have to do is make a few clicks right here on CNet. The Second Gen Zune beats the iPod Class in a PrizeFight. If thats not evidence enough a quick google search will give you plenty of other examples.

[rapier1]

@Random:
http://reviews.cnet.com/4370-6490_7-706-102.html (zune 120 won)
http://reviews.cnet.com/4370-6490_7-569-102.html (ipod won but zune tied on sound quality, ui, and cost)
http://reviews.cnet.com/4370-11399_7-324-102.html (tie with Zune 80)

[t8]

@mikestatic1

I hate Microsoft and keep away from their products when I can.

[rapier1]

Yes, and in China Coca-Cola can be written to mean 'bite the wax tadpole'. What's your point?

[Lumiseon]

Agreed. The Zune is in every way better than the iPod. And don't bring up "apps", because apps aren't anything needed. The iPod literally IS just riding on hype now. If the hype ever died down, the iPod would completely fail.

[Ilgaz]

CNET, you are really becoming more than a joke every day.
You know that iPod and now iPhone kingdom has been emerged because of the horrible mistakes that Creative, their partner MS and dozens of companies did right?
You can ship a 1080p displaying device right now and if you do insist on making the very same mistakes, people will still buy iPod. Why? Not because they are stupid, iPod gives them a flawless experience without question of compatibility.
I don't own an iPod, iPhone and I don't plan to but I have used them, helped people set them up and watched how the real iPod users use their device. There is no device on market which will convince them to move to Zune or any "great specs" machine out there. It is NOT just hardware specs. My Nokia E65, a _business_, enterprise phone has better qualities than iPhone 3G if we look hardware, software wise and choice.
If you really figure finally that you don't need to be Microsoft's laptop anymore, gigantic company named CBS bought you out, you will start real technical reporting and you will laugh at these stories.
If you don't disappear by then...
BTW, where is "Zune suite for OS X" ? Just asking... Don't tell me we drag and drop files, even if possible. So? It means MS is not out to sell devices and create a market, they are out to sell windows-only devices which will guarantee their dominance on desktop in future.
For people, looking for specs and happy to struggle a bit, 720P devices are already out from Samsung, at least in Asia. They play standard mpeg4, h264, mp3 files and have decent wi-fi and 3G connection.

[monkeyfun14]

Since when has there been compatibility issues with Zune? And it appears you haven't fully sat down with either I have personally owned both. Until you have sat down with both players your bashing really holds no water.

[Ilgaz]

@monkeyfun , there is no official support for Zune even on OS X which is the OS which "integrated media player hardware/software/music experience" took off.
We don't have anti closed source, patent zealots either. There is no reason rather than being the usual spoiled kid for MS not to support OS X. Zero. I am sure people who can code that gigantic MS Office can code a "media player 11" for OS X, in no time.

[docster87]

None of the past Zunes have been Mac OS usable. I doubt if the next wave of Zunes would work with Mac OS. I have two Macs and no PC (except the XP I can run in a window on my desktop Mac). Why should I buy a device that won't run on my native OS when I can buy a device that does? iPods & iTouches run on both PCs & Macs.

Can you run Mac OS in a window on your PC????

Just buy & use what works for you. I didn't see any "specs" that leads me to believe the Zune HD is that much better. Radio? Got that in my car. Wireless syncing? Not that much in a hurry to double drain my battery. I can plug my iPhone into my TV - and HD video just doesn't impress me. My iPods/iPhone works great for me, but I agree that others may prefer something different.

[Renegade Knight]

"iPod gives them a flawless experience "

Man this is funny. We fight with iPods all the time trying to get them to do what they should be able to do. They do music OK. They arent' that hot at audio books unless you buy them out of the store.

[ccmike72]

the Ipod experience is far from flawless. BTW wow even more software you can't find for a mac (granted its MS). Comparing Ipod video or classic to the Zune. The Zune is hands down better. And with DRM free itunes if you want you can purchase music there and put it on a Zune plus you can still use Zunes awesome subscription service.

[Dalkorian]

by Renegade Knight April 17, 2009 7:38 AM PDT
We fight with iPods all the time trying to get them to do what they should be able to do. They do music OK.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Did I completely misunderstand those two statements or does someone need to remind RK what an iPod is again?

[nathan43082]

"We fight with iPods all the time trying to get them to do what they should be able to do."

You have to turn them on first.

[redjet3]

why do you think ipod decided to work with pc's, because if they didn't they wouldn't sell any. it would be nice if zune worked on a mac, but that is unlikely. also, the people before that said that people hated the zune because its name, its really because they hate microsoft and all of its failures. i second guessed myself when i first bought a zune because of the many microsoft failures, but when you use it compared to the ipod, it really is a smoother experience (minus the support). if the most of the features of the zune HD are true, i'm getting it, easy as that.

[El_Segfaulto]

@docster87
"Can you run Mac OS in a window on your PC????"

Nope, sure can't. However that's due more to the Gestapo like control Apple feels they need to stay competitive more so than any inherent flaw in either of my operating systems (7 beta or Ubuntu 8.10)