The Zune HD, Microsoft's rival to Apple's iPod, will hit stores in September and cost $220 (R1 772) for the 16-gigabyte model and $290 for the 32GB version, the company announced on Thursday. comparable iPod Touch players are priced at $299 and $399 respectively. a 16-gigabyte player typically holds about 4,000 songs.

Microsoft's new Zune HD is slimmer than previous version and has a touch screen for the first time. The range comes in five colors and has a built-in radio receiver, Wi-Fi, and will sport a 3.3″ high resolution touchscreen that is crystal clear and will provide High Definition images.

HD features now available in the Zune will enable a hook up to a HD TV for watching the films in great resolution. In addition, HD radio will be available, which seems like the more likely and beneficial feature. For the few (or more) individuals who would like better sounding music and programming…now the new Microsoft Zune is aiming to provide it.

As was the case with the previous Zune model, the new one will also have built-in WiFi and browser. The thing is, with the larger and clearer screen, it seems like a better result. Also, with the touchscreen capability, it really becomes a more worthy competitor to the iPod Touch.

Now let's get to the looks! On first sight, the Zune HD looks sleeker and more innovative. No more of that big button using up space, it now is encased in a fine looking box which simply looks better than before; perhaps Microsoft learned a little from Apple successful iPods (as with everything else) and decided that looks are truly important.

Some new and cool features in the new Zune HD:

- support HD multimedia playback (no information on maximum resolution) and HD content will become available from the Zune Marketplace.
- Included in the Xbox Live Marketplace, providing film and Television features straight to the Microsoft Music player.
- OLED Touchscreen finally brings flipping through music, movie and additional content easily.
- 16:9 Widescreen display with 480×272 Resolution.
- Internet Browser with touch usability
- WiFi instant streaming of music

 

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