15 Sep 09 So, Who’s getting a Zune HD?
Four months after it was announced, the Zune HD has officially been released. You would think those months of waiting might backfire on Microsoft, but on the contrary, the hype for this player has increased steadily. Also out today is Zune software 4.0 (which is required to use the ZHD). The software has a redesigned interface, and includes new features like SmartDJ (similar to Apple Genius), quickplay, and mini moder. Here’s a quick run-down of what you need to know about the Zune HD:
The Player
Capacity: 16 or 32GB
Display: 3.3″ Multi-touch OLED Touchscreen (480 x 272 resolution) and Built-in accelerometer
Audio: MP3, WMA, WMA Lossless, AAC, and WAV
Video: WMV. WMV HD, MPEG-4, H.264, MS-DVR (up to 1280 x 720 at 30fps for WMV HD and H.264). HD Output with optional Dock
Wi-Fi: 02.11b/g compatible, Built-in Web Browser, Sync with Home computer, Stream from Zune Marketplace
HD Radio: Free HD radio, plus the ability to tag music to purchase later
Apps and Games: Many Apps coming later including Twitter, and Facebook. Games are also on the way, including Project Gotham racing.
Battery Life: 33 Hours for Audio (w/wireless off), and 8.5 hours for video
Powered by Nvidia Tegra processor
Dimensions: 52.7 mm x 102.1 mm x 8.9 mm (74 grams)
Price: $219.99 and $289.99 respectively
Ironically, one of the features that originally made the Zune unique has been removed. According to Cnet, Microsoft has removed Zune to Zune sharing, AKA “squirting”.
The Software
If you happened to get the Zune HD early, it was as good as a paperweight (albeit a very sexy one). The player needs to be synced up with Zune software 4.0 which just went live a few hours ago.
quickplay: Get instant access to the stuff you care about most with shortcuts to favorites, recently downloaded or played music, videos, and more.
smart dj: From any artist, album, or song, Smart DJ will generate a related playlist from the music on your computer and new music from Zune Marketplace.
mini mode: Putting the Zune software into mini mode while listening to music allows you to use your other programs while continuing to see what’s playing.
We’ll take a more in-depth look at Zune 4.0 later on.
image credit: Cnet
Zune Originals
If you want a red, or green ZHD, Zune Originals is the place to go. Along with various artist designs, you can also engrave your player with MLS (Major League Soccer) insignias, or Xbox video game logos such as Fable II, Halo 3, and Forza Motorsport.
Where to Buy
Reviews, Previews, etc…
ABi Preview
Zune HD Tear-down
Q&A with Zune Marketing manager
So that’s about it for now. Now the question is, who’s getting one. Leave a comment to let us know! (make sure to cast a vote in our poll as well)
