What is the Microsoft Zune?

The Microsoft Zune is the latest in portable MP3, video and photo technology to compete directly with Apple's iPod. The Zune refers to anything associated with the digital audio player, must store and software required to sync it all together. The audio player can play music, videos, photo slide shows and receive FM radio transmissions. It can be used to share files to and from the Xbox 360 as well as play through a television via an A/V composite cable.

The unit can be charged via an additional wall charger or directly from the computer when hooked up via USB cable. It takes roughly two hours to charge most of the battery with an additional hour to charge it to full capacity. It has up to 14 hours of battery life when Wi-Fi is not in use and boasts 13 hours with it in use. Four firmware versions have been released since the launch date, and these updates are easily available through the Zune software and Marketplace.

Each Zune will come with a carrying case, a USB cable and headphones. It comes in three main colors, for now: Black, white and brown. There are two limited edition colors: Orange and pink. Red Zunes were on auction for a short period of time, too. It currently comes in a 30 GB retail version. This version can hold up to 7500 songs, 25000 pictures and more than 100 hours of video. It was released in November of 2006 in the United States.

The Zune is designed as a multimedia device emphasizing music and video playback.

It is made with a plastic case and a circular controller. There are five buttons included in the design and uses a twist-type interface to scroll through various features. Music, videos and pictures are all stored in different places on the hard drive included, as well as FM transmissions. There is no podcast support or RSS download capabilities included, yet. The FM radio can play local stations as well as international stations. Users can also control whether or not they want to view NTSC or PAL formatted videos and can create intricate slide shows accompanied by their music.

The device can steam music, photos and videos to and from the Xbox 360 as well as from its home network. Its Wi-Fi connection allows for some sharing of music, play lists and other media with other Zune users within a 30 foot range. The community function allows you to search for Zune users in the area and see what they are up to, so even if you do not know somebody else with a Zune, you may be able to find someone in your range to trade with when you are out and about. Songs, however, will no longer play after three uses or three days, whatever comes first, unless they are purchased from the Zune Marketplace.

The Zune Marketplace works much like the iTunes Music Store. Users can login and purchase music for as little as $0.98 a song. The Zune Pass is also available for $14.99 a month, as long as you are subscribed, you can enjoy the benefit of downloading music to your Zune for unlimited use. Once the subscription is up, the Zune software disables your ability to play it anymore via the unit or the computer until you pay up. One notable difference between the Zune Marketplace and iTunes is the use of Microsoft Points. The point system can be used to purchase content and in some cases, specific content can only be purchased with points as opposed to money.

The Zune software itself syncs the device with your computer. It is a version of Windows Media Player with additional codecs for other media formats that do not normally come with the player. You can interact directly with the Zune Marketplace from the player as well as keep track of your entire media library. It also keeps track of songs traded with other Zune users for your records.

Each Zune comes with a selection of pre-loaded content. Songs from artists such as Band of Horses, Darkel and Small Sins as well as music videos from the likes of 30 Seconds to Mars, Coldcut and Paul Oakenfold come ready to play. Short films by 5boro, Radical Films and TGRTV are included as well as pictures from the Art of Modern Rock are also ready to watch and view.

If you are looking for a new digital media player, the Zune might be right up your alley. It has impressive sound quality and video playback as well as a large music store to find the albums and songs you are looking for. One of the biggest complaints about the Apple iPod is its lack of FM transmission, and the Zune has the ability to tune in locally and internationally. FM transmission coupled with good audio quality gives you the opportunity to listen to your favorite songs as well as what is playing in your neck of the woods.

Since the launch, Microsoft as well as third-party companies have produced a large selection of accessories to spice up the Zune. Docks, chargers, cases and other products can give your Zune a special flare, and you can always find something that will work well within your price range and style. Docks in particular can be a nice addition if you listen to a lot of music at home or work and use your Zune as a way to transfer music back and forth.

If you are looking for a MP3 player to double as a radio, the Zune might just be the way to go. The retail price has dropped lower than the original $249 in most places, including Amazon.com and other online retailers. Most consumer electronics stores have demos available for you to preview, so, stop in and see what the Zune can do for you while you are on the go. A Microsoft Zune might be right up your alley.