it's things like this that make me sad, becuase they just go to show that the best product won't necessarily win out, it's simply the best marketing
From what i hear, not so... From engadget: "To attract current iPod users Microsoft is going to let you download for free any songs you've already bought from the iTunes Music Store. They'll actually scan iTunes for purchased tracks and then automatically add those to your account. Microsoft will still have to pay the rights-holders for the songs, but they believe it'll be worth it to acquire converts to their new player." http://www.engadget.com/2006/07/06/microsoft-planning-wifi-enabled-portable-media-player-working-o/
for sure! I've also heard, i believe through the same sight, that Microsoft's goal is to update the Zune software periodically; as opposed to Apple's plan to make you buy new iPods periodically (they're pink now!!!)...which was enough to sell me on a Zune.
ummm, yesssss, except for the fact that Microsoft's regular software updates are simply critical security patches...
right, lemme clarify what i meant... From what i've read, Microsoft's goal with the Zune is to make money on updates to the functionality (not simple system updates) rather than just sell a bunch of units. So, where thousands of iPod owners had to buy a new iPod Video for said functionality, Microsoft will just upgrade the unit with video playing capabilities (or more accurately, whatever is next. phone?). This way users won't have to plunk another $300 for a new Zune...just what i heard, and as usual, it may have all changed.
that's a nice idea, but they can only extend the capabilities as far as the hardware will allow. So, I could see a few tweaks and improvements over time, but I can't imagine major changes like no video & then video
Even though the iPod has been dominated by other MP3 players features since it came out, it still holds the market and the cool factor. Thus, I believe the Zune will fail to beat out the iPod, but will probably be up there with the "best of the rest" like the iRiver and Zen. What I do think will defeat the iPod is the mobile phone. Big strides have been made in mobiles for music, the W800i came out last year and did very well as a music phone and everyone else is doing the same. With 4GB models out now (compared to 512mb on the w800i)your mobile could push out the MP3 players for pure portable music within 2 years.
Zune is a fairly nice idea, but I wouldn't call it an ipod killer. The new features are plentiful though!
Yeah and that shall be cool. I really prefer a cell phone rather than carrying a cell phone + ipod/zune/you name it...
Zune looks very nice.Has some good features that Ipods don't. I am sure Apple will upgrade their ipods. I am an *APPLE* fan
I wonder how long it will be before someone boots linu on it? reminds me of the linux on xbox contest
totally agree .. its a possibility that mobile phones ( with nice speakers and sufficient memory ) will replace the MP3 players . Anyways any idea about the price for Zunes ( the inbuilt FM feature sounds good ) ..!!
Zune will have moderate success. MS will link it up with the xbox360. However, I dont think it will be a big competitor to the ipod. MS missed the opportunity to blow the market up they shouldve release zune at a huge money loss. Say a 30gb at $99 bucks. They would've generated instant market share.