Third-generation Microsoft Zune

Just before Apple made the big announcement about the new range of iPods, Microsoft quietly slipped in its latest generation of its MP3 player, Zune. This was the third iteration of the player that Microsoft hopes will take the monopoly from Apple’s range of iPod. While there have not been major changes to the device in terms of hardware but the software has got a major overhaul. Lets look at it in detail.

Microsoft Zune specifications :

• Dimensions : 2.4″ x 0.5″ x 4.3″
• Display : 3.2″ 320 x 240 resolution
• Hard drive : Built-in 120GB
• PC interface : USB, Wi-Fi
• Radio tuner : Built-in
• Audio formats supported : WMA, WMAPro, Audible, MP3, AAC
• Photo playback : JPEG supported
• Video Playback : MPEG-4 supported
• Battery : Lithium-ion rechargeable
• Battery life : 30 hours(music), 4 hours(video)
• Games : Built-in
• Approx. price : $250

The design has remained unchanged from second generation Zune except for the color scheme. The back side has been changed colors from silver to black.  The overall finishing of the phone is glossy plastic compared to metallic, which is more prone to fingerprints. The controls, headphone jack, connectors, hold switch.

Unchanged hardware has left a lot of people puzzled and a software update could have been pushed also to the older device. Cosmetic changes solely can not guarantee the success of the player especially when it has a low market share. The software upgrade though has enhanced the capability of the player. Marketplace and Games are the two new additions to the main menu. Marketplace lets your purchase songs or preview them. Subscription to Microsoft’s Zune Pass enables you to download unlimited number of songs for a flat fee of $15 per month. Wi-Fi is used for connecting to the Marketplace.

FM tuner is one thing that is absent from all Apple devices but finds place in Microsoft Zune. And to top it up, the quality of the FM is great that you will find on other MP3 players. FM player supports Radio Broadcast Data System (RBDS) which lets your view detailed station and song information. Games have found their way to Zune and it comes preinstalled with two games called Hexic and Texas Hold’em. New games will be added to Marketplace in due course of time.

The audio, video and photo playback is similar to the previous generation which was already great. WMA Lossless music format is now supported on the device. The device’s screen can be mirrored onto an external display using the video output feature.

Social feature has got a boost and not integrates nicely with Wi-Fi. You can have a look at your friend’s listenening habits by befrending him. Zune automatically detects device in its proximity. You can also exchange messages between friends using this service. Podcasts can also be downloaded onto the device and old ones deleted.

The battery performance of the device remains unchanged as compared to its previous iteration. With the price cut on the player and higher capacity, you have to let go of the good quality earphones and now Micosoft bundles average sounding earphones.  Overall it offers good competition to the iPod Classic which now comes at a maximum space similar to the Zune.

Pros :

• Increased storage
• Enhanced Wi-Fi
• Social feature gets boost
• Unlimited music at $15/month
• Games support added
• Great FM Radio with RBDS
• Good battery life
• Great video playback

Cons :

• Average earbuds bundled
• Prone to fingerprints
• unimproved hardware

Final Thoughts

The Zune 120GB has a few cosmetic changes and a much improved software which supports games and marketplace. Wi-Fi has been enhanced and now integrates better with the services. Its social service is great for those who are on constant lookout for music recommendations. Overall a good alternative to the iPod Classic.

My Rating : 4/5