Thursday, February 26, 2009

Microsoft Zune 16GB - A True Media Player with Functionality

By Matt Ryan

Microsoft introduced a new media player within the last decade; however, has continually tried to improve upon their original model. This brings them to current day with the release of their third generation Zune (16GB). With a lower price take, that its predecessors, and many more features, the Zune (16GB) can finally compete with other high end MP3 players on the market.

Manufacturer's suggested retail price, on the Zune (16GB) is $199.99 but can be found for less with a bit of hunting. Like previous models, the third generation Zune (16GB) has an FM tuner, but also has Wi-Fi as well.

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.

With measurements of 3.6" x 1.6" x 0.33" and weighing in at 1.7oz, Microsoft's Zune is now physically comparable to some iPod models. Other than the size, the external features have not changed much from its predecessors. One of the bonuses of this is that all of your old accessories, from previous Zune models, will still work on this Zune. A minor change would be the shiny coating Microsoft covered the Zune with. This coating; however, attracts scratches and smudges easily making it difficult to keep clean.

With a 1.8-inch LCD 320 x 240-pixel resolution display, consumers can view their images and videos with clarity and sharpness. Rotating the Zune (16GB) on its side gives users the ability to view videos from a widescreen angle. (Horizontally and vertically flipping the unit will change the view of the display.)

Consumers are able to purchase and download music, podcasts, and videos directly from Zune Marketplace - anytime and anyplace. (Users have the option of a monthly subscription - $15 a month - or pay as you go.) Additionally, users can share their own videos and pictures with other Zune owners. One more added bonus is Zune Social; a social networking platform that allows Zune owners to communicate and share information - similar to MySpace.

Many audio and video file types are supported on the third generation Zune (16GB), such as MP3, WMA, MPEG-4, WMV, and even AAC. AAC is an audio book format; therefore, you can now listen to your favorite audio books right from your Zune.

Microsoft's third generation Zune (16GB) offers consumers a true multi-media platform, along with some social networking capabilities. Users can connect, purchase, download, and communicate from anywhere with the use of the newly integrated Wi-Fi technology. At a fraction of the cost of older generation Zunes, the third generation Zune (16GB) can easily be budgeted and added to any home network. - 15634

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