Microsoft has been trying to compete with Apple for years in the MP3 business. Their third generation of Zune players may just be what they needed to begin stomping the competition. While there are not many visible changes to the Zune, there are many firmware and hardware changes, along with added features. With a price drop, and the upgraded features and technology, Microsoft's Zune (16GB) is finally grabbing the attention of many who never even glanced.
The latest Zune (16GB) release sells for $199, quite a bit lower than previous models. It has Wi-Fi integration along with an updated FM tuner. The FM tuner worked nicely in the predecessors of the third generation Zune (16GB), but is even more impressive now.
The MP3 player uses Radio Broadcast Data System (RBDS) technology, which gives the FM tuner added features for users. Consumers can easily view the name of the song, along with the artist, from radio stations that use this technology. Furthermore, users can preset up to 50 FM stations, along with the ability to tag songs for a later purchase from Zune Marketplace. (When a user tags a song, it is added to the user's virtual cart in Zune Marketplace. Users simply move the item to their cart and check out, or remove the song if they no longer want to purchase and download it.)
Users now have the ability to play games on their third generation Zune (16GB). Current models are only being shipped with two games: Hexic and Texas Hold'em; however, more games will be available via Zune Marketplace. Once available through the marketplace, it is simple to purchase and download additional games - just as you can with your music files.
Microsoft's third generation of Zune players closely resembles other MP3 players with its overall measurements of 3.6" x 1.6" x 0.33". Other than size, the physical appearance of this MP3 player did not really change much. The advantage to this is that you can still use any of your old Zune accessories with the newer models. It does have a more elegant appeal to it with the shiny coating covering the entire exterior. (This glossy coat - unfortunately - attracts fingerprints and scratches and smudges very easily.)
Microsoft's Zune (16GB) incorporates a 1.8" LCD screen that displays vibrant coloring at a 320 x 240-pixel resolution. It also can be viewed in normal and widescreen formats. Like many smart phones, simply turn the Zune (16GB) on its side and you have widescreen viewing capabilities.
Consumers are able to purchase and download songs directly from their Zune via Zune Marketplace. Users have the flexibility of signing up for a monthly membership or paying for each file as it is downloaded. Another phenomenal platform is Zune Social; it is a social networking platform specifically for Zune owners / users.
Multiple audio and video file formats are supported on the third generation Zune (16GB); file formats such as H.264, MPEG-4, MP3, WMA, WMA Lossless, and AAC. AAC is one format for audio books, which is what gives users the ability to listen to audio books from their new Zune (16GB).
Microsoft's third generation Zune (16GB) not only offers multiple media outlets, for users, but also offers instant connectivity to other users and files. Enjoy your favorite media like never before with the newest Zune (16GB). - 15634
The latest Zune (16GB) release sells for $199, quite a bit lower than previous models. It has Wi-Fi integration along with an updated FM tuner. The FM tuner worked nicely in the predecessors of the third generation Zune (16GB), but is even more impressive now.
The MP3 player uses Radio Broadcast Data System (RBDS) technology, which gives the FM tuner added features for users. Consumers can easily view the name of the song, along with the artist, from radio stations that use this technology. Furthermore, users can preset up to 50 FM stations, along with the ability to tag songs for a later purchase from Zune Marketplace. (When a user tags a song, it is added to the user's virtual cart in Zune Marketplace. Users simply move the item to their cart and check out, or remove the song if they no longer want to purchase and download it.)
Users now have the ability to play games on their third generation Zune (16GB). Current models are only being shipped with two games: Hexic and Texas Hold'em; however, more games will be available via Zune Marketplace. Once available through the marketplace, it is simple to purchase and download additional games - just as you can with your music files.
Microsoft's third generation of Zune players closely resembles other MP3 players with its overall measurements of 3.6" x 1.6" x 0.33". Other than size, the physical appearance of this MP3 player did not really change much. The advantage to this is that you can still use any of your old Zune accessories with the newer models. It does have a more elegant appeal to it with the shiny coating covering the entire exterior. (This glossy coat - unfortunately - attracts fingerprints and scratches and smudges very easily.)
Microsoft's Zune (16GB) incorporates a 1.8" LCD screen that displays vibrant coloring at a 320 x 240-pixel resolution. It also can be viewed in normal and widescreen formats. Like many smart phones, simply turn the Zune (16GB) on its side and you have widescreen viewing capabilities.
Consumers are able to purchase and download songs directly from their Zune via Zune Marketplace. Users have the flexibility of signing up for a monthly membership or paying for each file as it is downloaded. Another phenomenal platform is Zune Social; it is a social networking platform specifically for Zune owners / users.
Multiple audio and video file formats are supported on the third generation Zune (16GB); file formats such as H.264, MPEG-4, MP3, WMA, WMA Lossless, and AAC. AAC is one format for audio books, which is what gives users the ability to listen to audio books from their new Zune (16GB).
Microsoft's third generation Zune (16GB) not only offers multiple media outlets, for users, but also offers instant connectivity to other users and files. Enjoy your favorite media like never before with the newest Zune (16GB). - 15634
About the Author:
Author Matt Ryan can help you find a great deal on a Microsoft Zune. Go to MiracleShopper to research and get information and pricing on MP3 Players and more.