Get a Zune 80 for $229 and get a free 2 month Zune Pass

Microsoft is currently running a nice special on the Zune 80. The offer is simple, if you purchase a black Zune 80 for the regular price ($229) you will be given a free two month Zune Pass. Which should be more than enough time to convince most people just how nice the Zune Pass really is. Of course, there are some catches, this offer is available through December 31, 2008 and limited to the US.

[Zune Store via ZuneBoards]

Wal-Mart offering the new Zune 120, lower priced Zune 80 a little early

The official release date was supposed to be the 16th, but it seems that at least one Wal-Mart in Harborcreek, PA has decided to add them to their show floor cabinets for everyone to see. Of course seeming how everything else detail wise managed to leak out a little early with the Zune lately, I suppose we should not see this as any real surprise.

While the pricing had already been confirmed by Microsoft, we can see from the image that Wal-Mart will sell off their remaining inventory of Zune 80's for a nice $198, which sounds like a good time for anyone looking to make a purchase. Of course if you wanted the biggest storage option to date, you would have to shell out the $50 extra for the Zune 120.

Personally I have a Zune 80 that is in excellent condition so its kind of a mute point for me, but I am a sucker for a bargain and had I been looking I think I would be more than tempted to go for the Zune 80 and save a few bucks, after all, all models of the Zune will be able to get the new firmware for free anyway and aside from storage that is where most of the cool features are anyway.

Has anyone else able to find one of the new, or discounted old Zunes in a local store yet? If not don't worry much as they should be everywhere tomorrow.

[Engadget]

Get a 30% Discount on Zune Skins from SkinIt

Are you tired of the color of your Zune? Do you want to express your personality and give your Zune a basic scratch protection?

Well, if this is your case, you might want to take advantage of the back-to-school 30% discount from SkinIt. Buy online at skinit.com/zune and use the code ZUNESUMMER at checkout. Simple as that.

SkinIt skins come in a vast selection of artwork. They have all sorts of skins,  including professional sports, colleges and college sports, fraternities and sororities, comics, entertainment, fashion, popular art, and more. These skins are made with 3M vinyl and won’t damage your Zune. You can also create your own design.

Zune Hack: Upgrade your Zune 80 to a Zune 120

Not enough space on your Zune 80? Don’t worry, for $150 you can now upgrade you Zune 80 to a Zune 120 by replacing the original HDD by a Toshiba MK1231GAL 1.8” 120Gb 5mm HDD. This Zune hack as been performed by a Chinese based company called Luna Commerce. The company says it will replace any HDD with bad sectors.

Of course, buy at your own risk and remember that attempting to install a HDD in you Zune 80 will instantly void your warranty. Who will first try to perform this Zune hack?  Any volunteer?

Speaking of Zune 120. Do you think the next Zune device will be a Zune 120, Zune 160 or even a Zune 250?

More pictures after the jump...
 

Joy Division limited edition Zune unboxings

Well, given the fact I love Joy Division, I would love to get my hands on one of these, especially after seeing the pictures. I however cannot justify the extra cost, mostly because I recently upgraded to a red Zune 80 and truly have no need for another 80GB Zune, even if it does look really cool.

I am not sure if this comes as any measure of success, but I have been keeping an eye out for unboxings and images and so far have seen very few. In fact I have come across just two, one of which comes from a zunerama forum member who managed to get number 39 out of 500 and the other from Peter Rojas of Engadget/RCRDLBL fame who happens to be even luckier and scored himself a protoype. The player is also (as of this posting) still available for purchase.

From the description that was given by the zunerama forum member "RL" it sounds like a very nice looking device and a worthy unboxing experience.

"I got the box this afternoon from Fed-Ex.   Solid Black.  Opened it up.  Solid black.  Unwrapped the black paper from the interior box.  Solid Black with the Unknown Pleasures Graphics engraved into the cardboard.  Opened what appeared to be a 2 inch thick, LP Sized box and found another padding area with the same design engraved into the polyfoam.  Lifted it up and there it was.  A leather case with the same engravings.  A black 80gb Zune.  It was solid black, almost reminicent of the 30gb, lighter with a sticker on the glass warning of unsuitable content for minors.  To the side were the obligatory usb cable and premium headphones.  Etched into it's polyfoam cradle was a single signature, Peter Saville.  I hesitantly warmed it up.  The Zune start screen began, and then the background, the background that was etched into every single part of the package.  I am charging it now as we speak."

Here are a few images of the limited edition Zune, and the links below will also take you to both unboxings to check out the rest of the images. If anyone comes across any more feel free to leave a comment below.

[zunerama] [engadget]

Joy Division limited edition Zune still available

While the latest limited edition Zune to become available officially went on sale a few days back on June 17, it seems there are still some available. As we previously mentioned the edition will be limited to a run of 500, each being individually numbered and also coming pre-loaded with the Joy Division Documentary movie.

I honestly did not think it would take all that long to sell out, and am a little surprised to see it still available today. However after some though my concern is that depending on when you began listening to music, and for those who are younger, you may not be all that familiar with just who the Joy Division is.

However, with that said, even as a Joy Division fan, I still find the $399 price tag a little high for my taste, but that black back sure does look sweet with the JD graphic included. While they seem to be going slow, they are only available until they sell 500, so if you are interested you may not want to wait much longer, as far as we know they could already be up to number 499.

Also, in an effort (I would imagine) to cut down on people from buying multiple units to create a demand and then resell them "you are only allowed 1 Joy Division Zune per order"    

[Zune Originals]

PDASmart now offering Lens Assembly replacements for the Zune

Have a Zune 80 that has more than its fair share of scratches on the display? Well worry no longer because PDASmart now has the plastic lens assembly available. The Lens Assembly for the Zune 80 is not as low-cost as one would hope, it retails for $50.00 if you want to do the work yourself of for an extra $15 you can send it in and have them do it for you. However, I suppose it is still a lot more affordable than having to buy a new Zune and much better than having to look at scratches everyday.

While PDASmart already offers LCD replacement assemblies for the 30GB, 80GB and flash-based 4GB and 8GB Zune, the Zune 80 remains the only player with a plastic lens cover replacement available.

[PR Web]

Joy Division themed Limited Edition Zune unveiled

The Joy Division themed Zune has officially made its appearance. The limited edition Zune is being released to mark the DVD release of a documentary about the life of Joy Division, the limited edition model will come in the form of a black Zune 80. Feature-wise it will be your standard 80GB Zune, however it will have the Joy Division movie pre-loaded along with the artwork from the Unknown Pleasures album featured on the back.

The Joy Division themed Zune will be available only through Zune Originals and sell for $399 beginning on June 17. It will also be limited to just 500 units, so if you are into Joy Division, then you may want to grab one on the day of release.

[Spin]

Belkin introduced a Sports Armband for Zune 4GB/8GB and Zune 80GB

Here’s the last new Zune case from Belkin for tonight.

Belkin adapted its Sports armband for the second generation Zune players. The armband are still hand-washable and water-resistant (Be careful! It doesn’t make the Zune water-resistant!)

The case is made with a reflective material for use in the dark and has a useful key pocket.

Belkin offers a lifetime warranty with this product. Retail price is also $29.99.

A picture of the Zune 80 version is available after the jump.

Source

Belkin: Remix Acrylic Case for Zune 4GB/8GB and Zune 80Gb

Part of the new second generation Zune case line-up, the “Remix” Acrylic Zune case is available for all new Zune players (4GB, 8GB and 80GB).  This form-fitted, metal-topped acrylic case has a detachable beltclip that also serves as a kickstand.

Just like the leather Zune case, the product gives complete access to navigation, ports and dock connector.

I’m personally not a big fan of acrylic cases, but I have to admit that, at least on the pictures, this one does look good.

The cases are available now on Belkin's website. Both models have a retail price of $29.99.

Check the Zune 4/8 version just after the break.

Belkin Released a Leather Sleeve for 4GB/8GB and 80GB Zune Players

Belkin finally released new Zune cases for the 4GB/8GB and 80Gb Zune models.

The new Zune cases feature Velcro strap attachment to secure the Zune, and also offer a full screen protection. You also have access to all ports and control buttons at all time.

These top-loading cases are made from easy-care microfiber and leather. They also come with a belt clip.

The Zune 8 does look great in this case. Don’t you agree with me? I'm just not convinced yet that the control buttons will still be easy to use.

Check the cases on Belkin's website. They are available now with a retail price of $29.99.

There’s another picture after the jump.

Red Zune 80GB is Now Available as "Not Limited-Edition"!

Well, it looks like the demand for the red Zune 80GB has risen high enough for Microsoft to include it in the normal product line. Was this in preparation for the Canadian launch? Maybe. Maybe it just sold enough for them to start selling it again. I'm glad they're doing this though, the more choices, the better.

Hopefully they will start making the new Zunes in white, that would look nice, but they might be holding that off for the 3rd gen Zunes. What other colors do you think they should start selling on Zune originals?

If you've been holding off on the 80GB because it only comes in black, maybe it's time to buy one!

Source

First Look: Zune 8 and Zune 80 Cases from Speck

Good news guys! I just received samples of the new Zune 8 and Zune 80 cases from Speck. The ToughSkin cases look a lot like the ToughSkin cases already available for the Zune 30, but the  leather case  is actually very cool. I've already tried my red Zune 8 with it, and it fits like a charm. The metal beltclip is also extremely well designed. The Zune pad can easily be used, but the back and play/pause buttons are a bit tricky to use with this case. I'll be using the product for a few days, just to see if this is really an issue or not. Stay tuned.

That's it for now. I'll be reviewing the products later. Check after the jump for more pictures.

Microsoft Makes Zune Mushy for V-Day

Microsoft is hoping to make this upcoming Valentine's Day a Zune day by unveiling a red color of its Zune 80GB. Like other Zune 80s you'll be able to pick it up for around $250.

Microsoft said that besides releasing a red 80GB player it would also be making available for a short time a collection of 20 new laser engraved designs which are inspired by "the themes of love and sharing." There will also be available on Zune Marketplace Valentine's Day playlists such as "Hip Hop Love" and "Talk to Me, Barry."

One other thing about the new engraved designs: they feature artwork from four new artist collectives and will let you pair each graphic with up to three lines of customizable text.

Golla Bags for Zune 30 and Zune 80

Earlier this week, Golla announced their brand new line of bags, specially made for the Zune player. Compatible with Zune 30 and 80 only, these bags have a really distinctive design. I’m bringing back a few samples with me. I’ll test them in the next few weeks. Visit www.golla.com for more information for now.

More pictures after the jump.

New Zune Speaker System from Kickers

Folks, this looks like the blockbuster of Zune accessories! Kicker, known for its car speakers and amplifiers, is going to release the ZK500, a stereo system for Zune players.

The system is equipped with two five-inch woofers and 40-watt stereo amplifiers. The system also comes with an infrared remote control. The remote lets you adjust the stereo system’s bass, treble, and auxiliary-in options, as well as the iPod or Zune menu directories. Cool!!! You can also select standby mode to continue charging your Zune player even when it’s powered down. 

According to the company, Kicker’s patent-pending six-inch square reflex subwoofer delivers a dynamic bass response unmatched by other MP3 docking stations.

The new Zune speaker system should hit the market somewhere in February and no retail price information is available at this time.

New Zune 80 and Zune 8 Cases from Agent 18

Even though many new partners have signed the Zune third party accessory agreement recently, we haven't seen a lot of new gears hitting the market so far.

But thanks to Agent 18, this is about to change! The online store has a few neat cases that could fit your newly bought Zune 80 or Zune 8 perfectly.

The Dragon Shield, a clear polycarbonate case, has been designed to fit the Zune 80. The simple snap on/off design case comes with a screen protector and connectors are, of course,  accessible at all time.

If you're a Zune 4 or Zune 8 owner, you might be interested in the Scorpion Kit made for your Flash based Zune player. This is a soft silicon case with rugged diamond design. The case comes with a multi-position neoprene armband and an ultra thin stainless steel belt clip. Just as the Dragon Shield, all connectors are accessible at all time. The case looks really cool on the pictures...

Both cases are available online with a $24.95 price tag. Any takers? More pictures after the jump

Happy new year's eve to all!

Zune 80 Reviewed by The Digital Lounge

Trolling the Web for ClicZune content brought me to this video review from a tech site called The Digital Lounge. The author is reviewing at length the Zune 80GB. As far as video reviews go, it is one of the more comprehensive ones I have so far seen.

Microsoft Being Cautious with Zunes?

Been pondering why the Zune 80 is in such short supply this holiday season? It's not related to being a move to prop up the popularity of this portable media player, according to a research note from research firm iSuppli. Analyst Chris Crotty speculates it's likely because Microsoft was cautious in its approach to how many initial 80GB units it ordered for development.

“Given the widespread criticism of the first Zune model, it is likely Microsoft erred on the side of caution when placing initial orders for the new Zunes, which include the Hard-Disk-Drive (HDD) based Zune 80 as well as the flash- memory-based Zune 4 and 8,” said Crotty.

iSuppli, in releasing this research note, notes MSFT has been pretty non-agressive in the PMP market, given the Zune belongs to the described 'fast-growing PMP segement." The research outfit estimates "PMPs will rise from 38 percent in 2007 to 66 percent in 2011."

Crotty reasons the slow approach for Microsoft in the PMP space is several factors, including the closed operating system of the Zune, not being the market leader in PMPs and what moves Apple may be up to with its iPod line.

Zune 80 Price Check As We Near Christmas

Picked up a Zune 80 yet for yourself or that loved one for Christmas? There's only around two weeks left to that moment where Zune 80s everywhere under Christmas trees and in stockings get opened. Here are a few shopping locations for you to pick one up before UPS goes into insane shipping mode:

• Wal-Mart: $247.88
• Amazon: $239.99
• Circuit City: $249.99
• Buy.com: $240.62

Zune Product Giveaway Exclusively for RSS Subscribers

UPDATE: Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, we have a winner! Joel Dominie just won a Zune dock and charger from our RSS subscriber Exclusive giveaway.

Joel won this beautiful Zune dock because he's a Cliczune RSS subscriber. Congratulations to you Joel and have fun with the new dock! Thanks to everyone who sent an email!

It's still time to register in the RSS Subscriber Exclusive Giveaway. We still have a lot more to give away in the next few months.

Here's what Cliczune RSS subscribers could see before everyone else:

Hey guy, I know it's been a while since I gave something to the RSS readers. Here's something right away! A Zune 2 dock and charger.

Just send me an email at “zunedock (at) Cliczune.com” with the subject “I want a Zune dock from Cliczune” and you’re in. Simple as that!

You have until noon, December 10th, to enter the giveaway. The winner will be selected randomly.

You snooze, you lose! Get to it now!

Zune is still a US-only product, and you need to have a US shipping address to be the winner.

ZuneOriginals: More than a Zune Player

Day after day we're getting testimonials of new Zune owners impressed by the new Zunes. Today, long time iPod fan, CNet's Donald Bell, just unboxed his brand new Zune 80 orderded at ZuneOriginals. Here's what Donald had to say about his Zune 80 unpacking experience:

"I'm writing this because I think what Microsoft is doing with the design and marketing of the Zune is noteworthy, especially when so many iPod competitors seem to be getting more sheepish about their product launches year-by-year. I had just as much excitement opening my custom Zune 80 this morning as I did unboxing the iPhone on the day it was released--and that's no small feat....Getting two lines of text etched into my iPod was not nearly as exciting as browsing Zune's catalog of full-size artwork. As a longtime iPod fan, it pains to admit when the competition looks this good, but I honestly believe the Zune deserves some recognition here."

You can also check Donald's video after the jump.

Cnet Prizefight: Zune 80 Vs. iPod Classic

It looks like Cnet has done another one of their infamous Prize fights, this time, pitting the iPod and the Zune in the ring. Read through the prizefight to see who the winner is!  Is it iPod or Zune? They have been at battle before, but these are the new contenders. If you thought the result should have been different, then write about it in the comments.

Look...Another Zune Promo Video...

Look - another Zune promotional video. This is just in case you haven't watched enough of them lately. This is reportedly one "created for an internal Zune presentation event, which took place in early November." It's...interesting. See for yourself.

Zune Reviewed by PC Magazine

Folks, PC Magazine says the Zune 80 outperforms the iPod Classic. Isn't cool? On the negative side, the reviewer doesn't like the Flash Zune. Well, can't win them all I guess.

Zune 80 Available at ZuneOriginals.net

If a plain Zune 80 is not enough for you, you can always customize it with laser-engraved designs and personal text through a new Web store called Zune Originals. They only had the Zune 4 and 8 until now, but the Zune 80s have arrived. What is you favorite design? Let us know it the comments.

Enjoy! Thanks Jesus and Arvind.

Want a Zune 80 for Christmas? Act Now!

The biggest issue with the Zune 80 since it was released two weeks ago is certainly its non-availability. But it looks like that the Zuneinsider was right and the Zune 80 will soon be available to all you, Zune fanboys. The question now is: Are you going to get it before Christmas?

If the answer is yes, you should act fast on this one…Amazon [affiliate] says the Zune will be available on December 16^th. If I can still count correctly, this is about 8 days before Christmas, and I don’t even add the shipping delays that can add a few days to a week depending on your location.

By the way, if you buy it now, Amazon adds a terrific discount on the Zune 80. Instead of the $249.00 price tag, you'll pay only $248.99. Isn't it wonderful?

Don’t snooze on this one. Act now and get a Zune 80 under the tree for you, or for a loved one.

Thanks StylesClash450...

Save $12 on a Zune 80GB

If you want to save a few bucks on getting your Zune 80, you can do that for today only, on Bestbuy.com. The only problem seems to be that they are still backordered, so you will have to wait for it, and I don't know if waiting longer is really worth the $12 of savings, but it doesn't seem like anyone (other than ebay) has them in stock anyway.

Zunes On Black Friday

We've been discussing the lack of Zune 80's in stores on this critical shopping day after Thanksgiving, popularly known as Black Friday.  You know, this may actually work in favor for Microsoft.  Recall the theory that people want what they can't have?  Well, the more they can't get it, the more they want it.  Check out these stories floating around the web today to get an idea how the Zune sales are proceeding on the busiest retail day of the year.

Start off with MacWorld (Brace yourselves for a Mac website reporting on the Zune; what a difference a year makes!); they're discussing that there's a big shortage of the Zune 80's, and that the Zune 30 is topping the Amazon list for the last few days.  They do go on to point out that the iPods are still plentiful on the Amazon list, but you had to expect them to give it an Apple spin, right?  Well, that's online, but what's going on B&M?

Then we head on over to news about Toy's 'R Us who apparently had a morning doorbuster of a Zune 30 for $70 (which is a really good deal, and the cheapest I've ever seen one for).  If you were in bed this morn' digesting turkey and stuffing, fret not.  At two corners of the country at least, there wasn't a Zune 30 to be had at that dirt cheap price.  That's right, at both the Toy 'R Us in New York, and the one in Florida, there were apparently a bunch of unhappy shoppers in line as the Zunes sold out at the store, and were forced to leave Zuneless, and look elsewhere.

Zune 80 Available at Walmart.com

Still looking for a Zune 80? Can’t resign and buy a Zune 8. Well, check on Walmart.com right away. The online store says they have it in stock.

You can also monitor nowinstock to see if the so desired and newly released MP3 player would not be available from your favorite online store. Otherwise, wait for a week or two and it’s going to be available everywhere…

Good luck and thanks to our tipster.

Availability of the Zune 80- How it's going to improve, and what to do for now

oday I have heard some great news for people that are still waiting for their 80 GB Zune's. We all know about the shortage, and their have been many rumors about it. "They're out of stock because of high demand," or "Microsoft has a manufacturing problem, resulting in the shortage". Well, this post from Cesar Menendez gives us the answer:

"You may have seen some buzz in the news and online over the last few days about the availability of Zune 80 - so I talked to the product management and retail teams to get the story. Here’s what I found out: Based on our own forecasts as well as early retail orders, we chose to prioritize production of the Zune 4 and Zune 8.  Zune 80 was at retail on launch day albeit in lower numbers.  That combined with the posotive press cycle and higher-than-expected demand has led to the current situation - but here’s the good news – we’ve stepped up production and significant inventory will begin hitting stores within the next 7-10 days. Right now, the stores which currently have availability: Circuit City, Target, and Walmart, and online, check out Best Buy, Circuit City, Wal Mart, GameStop, Amazon, and Dell."

Zune 80 Production Problems? Try Ebay!

So...how badly do you want a Zune 80GB right now? Our report earlier today about it being hard to find may stem from a production shortage, as a story over at Zune Scene (thanks kevo777 for the mention) points out. A new production run is perhaps several weeks away.

In the meanwhile you could always try Ebay. A quick check there this afternoon revealed units were selling only about $50 to $75 over the MSRP of $249.99. That might of course change if the Zune 80 remains scarce and a run occurs on those left in stock. A run on the Zune...imagine that.

Zune 80 Out of Stock

Last year, I seriously thought that the original Zune needed a flash based entry level player to complete the line up.  After all, this way, folks could get into the Zune line, and then trade up to the fuller featured hard drive player.  That's been the marketing strategy for a certain competitor that makes products in white, and it has worked well.

I was kind of surprised when I saw this story on Ars Technica recently:

The new Zunes are out—mostly. While availability of the 4GB and 8GB flash models is excellent, the black 80GB hard drive model has been hard to find. Microsoft assures us that "high demand" is to blame.

Hard to find a Zune 80?  Apparently, these things must be selling like hotcakes!  The major retailers, including Amazon, Circuit City, and Best Buy all seem to be out of stock on them, and will be for a couple of weeks.  I'm guessing that at least some folks are not going to get theirs under the Christmas tree in time at the rate we're going, and we're only one week from Black Friday.

Were that many folks looking for an alternative to the iPod Classic white 80 GB player?  It seems that they were, and I'm pleased that Zune has designed a compelling product that has generated this much demand.  It's kind of unusual in that their most expensive product is selling the best.  Perhaps Carm's hair isn't as safe as she thought?

New Zune 80 and Zune 4 and 8 Cases from Incipio

Incipio released a new line of Zune cases for the Zune 80 and Zune 4 and 8.

The new Duke Wallet (picture above) is a slim minimalist case available for all three new Zune players. The Zune case is made of high-quality, raw natural leather and suede and you have an easy access to all ports and control buttons.

The case has a retail price of $29.99 for the Zune 80 and $19.99 for the Zune 4 and 8. The case is also available in other colors and available now.

But that’s not all. Incipio has something else for you, Zune 4 and Zune 8 owners.

The Incipio Flip (picture below) offers a classic design and excellent protection for your Zune 4 and 8.

The case is made of high-quality, premium top-grain leather and suede lining on the inside. Just like the Duke Wallet, you have an easy access to all buttons and features. The case has a retail price of $19.99 and is available in a selection of colors.

New Zune Promotional Video: Pretty Cool

Had a chance to check out the Zune promotional video loaded on the new players yet as part of all that pre-loaded content? If not you can take it for a spin above - it's actually pretty cool animation and music.

Zune 80 Unbox Video

I have finally been able to get my new Zune 80GB! I have been waiting for this for a while, and I'm pretty sure you guys have been too. Well, watch the Video and hopefully you'll like it. One thing to note: I have tested the old Docks with the new Zune 80, and Unfortunately, IT DOESN'T WORK!!! This stinks, because now I have to shell out another $100 for 2 more docks!

Zune Review from IWAPZ dot com

Zune biggest Zune fan (after Steven Smith of course), Stefan Shipman, posted is Zune 80 and Zune 8 review.

Enjoy the reviews.

Zune review: Unboxing the Zune 80 and Zune 8

New product unboxing is becoming an Internet classic for consumer electronic products. Zune MVPs, Zunerama and Zunethoughts received a pre-release of the new Zunes and you can see the unboxing in action in these three videos.

Enjoy the Zune unboxing!

New Zune Preloaded Content

Just like last year, the new Zunes are preloaded with music and videos. This year's line-up is quite interesting and it shows a shift in the Zune marketplace music philosophy. Barenaked Ladies, Avril Lavigne and Bebel Gilberto will attract many new Zune owners.

Even though most of us don't really give a lot of value to the preloaded content, do you think it gives a value to the Zune or you would prefer to have no content at all on you brand new Zune?

Watch the Easy video from the Barenaked Ladies. I like it a lot

Here's the listed published by Andrea from GenerationZune:

2nd Generation Zune Cases from Belkin

The new Zune 80, 4 and 8 won’t be available for another two weeks, but Microsoft announced the immediate availability of new Zune accessories to match your favorite mp3 player.

Today, Microsoft announced the availability of the new 1^st party Zune home AV pack and the Altec Lansing iM414 Speaker Dock for Zune. But Belkin also revealed their brand new Sport Armband for Zune 80, Zune 4 and Zune 8.

Priced at $29.99 these cases have a key or ear bud pocket.

The flash Zune looks really great in this armband. No?

Source

Double Shot 2.0 In New Zunes

There are still some details emerging on the new Zune players as we approach the November 13th introduction (I can't wait, can you?).  One relates to the double shot effect.  This is the cool lighter color that lights up along the border of the Zune 30 that's been posted about before here. 

For the new Zune 80, the double shot effect is to remain, but there's a serious reversal.  Somehow, the outer border will illuminate in a darker color.  The idea is to have a darker edge.  Also, the Zune 80 is to have a metal back to keep the overall thickness down.  It also seems that this darker double shot effect is also incorporated into the Zune 4 and 8 flash player line.  You can read the source material here.

The more I hear about this new implementation of the double shot effect, I can't wait to actually see it in action!  Just over two weeks to go...

Zune and iPod Almost Equal in Battery Life

The new Zunes have similar battery life to the new ipods, and here are the facts:

• The new Zune 80 gets 30 hours of audio playback, and 4 hours of video playback
• The ipod Classic gets 30 hours of audio playback, and 5 hours of video playback


• The flash Zune gets 24 hours of audio playback and 4 hours of video playback
• The iPod Nano gets 24 hours of audio playback and 5 hours of video playback

I assume the Zune gets one hour less of battery life on video playback because of the larger screen . I would rather watch video content on a nice screen for 4 hours than to have to squint for 5 hours while trying to watch videos from an Ipod. What do you think you would rather have, a larger screen or better battery life?

Source