Microsoft Zune 16GB – Listen and View from Anywhere You Go

Microsoft has been trying to compete with Apple for years in the MP3 business. Their third generation of Zune players may just be what they needed to begin stomping the competition. While there are not many visible changes to the Zune, there are many firmware and hardware changes, along with added features. With a price drop, and the upgraded features and technology, Microsoft’s Zune (16GB) is finally grabbing the attention of many who never even glanced.

Manufacturer’s suggested retail price, on the Zune (16GB) is $199.99 but can be found for less with a bit of hunting. Like previous models, the third generation Zune (16GB) has an FM tuner, but also has Wi-Fi as well.

The FM tuner is robust with the integration of Radio Broadcast Data System technology. This technology enables user to see the song and artist name, of the current song, when the radio station uses the same technology. Additionally, users can tag their favorite songs, when they hear them, and they will automatically move to a virtual cart within Zune Marketplace. Furthermore, consumers can have up to 50 preset FM radio stations available at the click of a finger.

Users have the luxury of listening to the favorite music and watching great videos, from the Zune (16GB). However, they now have the ability to play games on the third generation Zune (16GB). Current models are installed with Hexic and Texas Hold ‘em; however, more games will be available for download via Zune Marketplace.

Microsoft’s third generation of Zune players closely resembles other MP3 players with its overall measurements of 3.6″ x 1.6″ x 0.33″. Other than size, the physical appearance of this MP3 player did not really change much. The advantage to this is that you can still use any of your old Zune accessories with the newer models. It does have a more elegant appeal to it with the shiny coating covering the entire exterior. (This glossy coat – unfortunately – attracts fingerprints and scratches and smudges very easily.)

Microsoft’s Zune (16GB) incorporates a 1.8″ LCD screen that displays vibrant coloring at a 320 x 240-pixel resolution. It also can be viewed in normal and widescreen formats. Like many smart phones, simply turn the Zune (16GB) on its side and you have widescreen viewing capabilities.

Consumers are able to purchase and download music, podcasts, and videos directly from Zune Marketplace – anytime and anyplace. (Users have the option of a monthly subscription – $15 a month – or pay as you go.) Additionally, users can share their own videos and pictures with other Zune owners. One more added bonus is Zune Social; a social networking platform that allows Zune owners to communicate and share information – similar to MySpace.

Many audio and video file types are supported on the third generation Zune (16GB), such as MP3, WMA, MPEG-4, WMV, and even AAC. AAC is an audio book format; therefore, you can now listen to your favorite audio books right from your Zune.

Users have access to all of the functionality of a portable media player right here in Microsoft’s third generation Zunes, with the added bonus of being connected – at all times – via Wi-Fi integration. Communicate, share, and download files from anywhere.