Amazon confused by Zune vs iPod rivalry?

Let's just call it the 'Microsoft Zune from Apple Computer'...

It seems Microsoft's foray into the world of personal MP3 players is proving confusing, even for some of the industry's most seasoned retailers.

A listing on Amazon.co.uk currently advertises pre-orders are being taken for the Microsoft Zune - however, it lists the product as being produced by Apple Computer, manufacturer of the iPod which currently dominates the market Microsoft covets.

It is doubtless a simple typo (see the screenshot below) which has sparked amusement among silicon.com readers ahead of Microsoft and Apple going toe-to-toe in the MP3 player market.

The Microsoft Zune is rumoured to be slated for a November launch. To date Apple has sold around 60 million iPods.

Hostility between Microsoft and Apple is nothing new but the iPod has proven to be a fresh thorn in the sides of Microsoft bosses.

In October 2004, Steve Ballmer, CEO of Microsoft, referred to iPod users as music thieves.

Ballmer said: "The most common format of music on an iPod is 'stolen'," though he later attempted to distance himself from the comments.

At the time of writing Amazon.co.uk could not be contacted for comment.

Amazon.co.uk's website seems to advertise a Microsoft Zune portable media player made by Apple Computer. At the time of writing Amazon.co.uk could not be contacted to establish whether the listing is the result of a typo or whether it's a subtle criticism of Microsoft's alleged tendency to ape the innovation and products of other companies. We're betting it's the former.