Microsoft announces new flash Zunes and the Zune 80GB, still no WiFi downloads
There were rumors that Microsoft was holding a special invite-only event tonight in Redmond and all hints led to the revelation of new Zune devices. Microsoft posted the official press release announcing the Zune 80GB, Zune 8GB, and Zune 4GB to join the existing Zune 30GB model late this evening. I was hoping that Microsoft would join the iPhone and iPod Touch with WiFi music downloads, but unfortunately that isn't going to happen when the devices are initially released in November. There will be some improvements in the latest Zune software and in the Zune Marketplace that the Zune 30GB will also benefit from in the way of an update.
The Zune 8GB (US$199.99) and 4GB (US$149.99) are flash based models available in pink, green, black, and glossy red. They have a new touch-sensitive center button, called the Zune Pad, that lets you flick your finger over the pad to fly through lists of songs or move through photos. These models have 1.8 inch displays so you can watch videos and view photos just like the larger Zune devices. A built-in FM tuner is also featured on all Zune models.
The 80GB Zune (US$249.99) comes with premium headphones and a bit larger display (3.2 inch vs the 3.0 inch display on the Zune 30GB). It also uses the new Zune Pad navigational control design.
A couple of new features include wireless sync, a change in the wireless sharing functionality, and better integration with Windows Media Center/Vista TV content functionality. You can now sync your Zune to your PC without connecting via a cable, but unfortunately you can't download content from anywhere you have a WiFi connection. Microsoft also did away with the time limit on shared songs so now you can listen to shared music 3 times over any period of time. You can also pass the songs along that are shared with you in an attempt to open up the social community aspects.
A new Zune beta online community will also launch soon called Zune Social. The Zune Marketplace has been redesigned and will feature more than 1 million DRM-free tunes. New accessories were also announced. You can check out more high resolution images of the new Zune devices on the media page. Thanks to Mobility Site for the link to the press release.