Microsoft will probably share some of the future plans of its Zune HD in mid-October, together with the launch of Windows Phone 7, says an insider. This one is not necessarily expecting new players to appear but hints that Microsoft’s CEO Steve Ballmer may take this opportunity to open a discussion about dedicated Zune devices. The October 11th open house event might be this occasion for Ballmer, as many of the latest offerings of Microsoft will be presented then.
Other details were not revealed, but the source suggested that initial capacities would not change and there would be 16GB, 32GB and 64GB versions. There is no clue whether the device would jump to Windows Phone 7, would use portions or would keep the original code of Zune, but the use of Windows Phone 7 is expected. However, Zune software is believed to remain because it is necessary for the synchronization of Zune and media on Windows Phone 7 devices.
Microsoft has been pressured to address its line of MP3 players since the unveiling of Windows Phone 7, the strategy risking to leave the existing model behind rivals. The Zune HD, unlike the iPod touch and Windows Phone 7 handsets, has no ties to a common application platform or to a modern browser. It has remained at two percent of the MP3 player share in the United States since it appeared. Despite newer models, cheaper prices and some unique features, such as music streaming on demand.
