Best Buy Canada offering 4GB Zune for free with purchase of a 16GB Zune

Best Buy Canada currently has a pretty nice offer going on the Zune -- buy a Zune 16 and get a Zune 4 for free. The Zune 16 is retailing for $179.99 and looks to only be available in black, but that aside it sounds like a pretty sweet deal.

A few items to note is that this offer is valid online only and (at the time of this posting) is showing a quantity remaining of 76. According to the Best Buy details, you simply need to add the black Zune 16 to your cart and the Zune 4 will be added automatically.

Sounds like a good deal to me, pick up a nice Zune for yourself, and get a nice extra for nothing. This would surely convince me to add a Zune to my collection, that is if I lived in Canada.

[Best Buy Canada]

Zune Holiday Price Cuts

Tis the season... to cut prices!  With the holiday shopping getting underway, and consumers keeping their credit cards in their pockets, Microsoft is sweetening the deals.  While I would argue to hold out for a Zune 120, that price held firm, but the rest of the line dropped in price.  Glad to see that Microsoft is doing what it takes to gain market share.  Will these price cuts get you to part with some dough?

Canadian Zune Price Cut

Amidst the upcoming Black Friday sale news, I spotted a deal on the Zune 8 gb.  It appears to be limited to Canada, but with what they had to go through to get the Zune, they deserve a break.  While the 8 gig player is certainly current, and it got the same firmware update earlier this fall, I'm kind of surprised to see the player get a $100 price cut.  This is going on at Future Shop, the big box retailer.  Last year the holiday deals were all on the 30 gig player, but it was already going out of date at the time.  At this fire sale of a price, I wouldn't hesitate to pick one up as a spare.  After all, you don't want your hard drive freezing on your new 120 gig Zune, right?  Don't think about it too long as the sales ends on November 20th.

Warriors in Pink offer limited edition Zune to support Susan G. Komen for the Cure

Warriors in Pink have just begun offering a customized pink Zune. The limited edition Zune is a 4GB flash model with a pink front and the Warriors in Pink logo on the back side. The one drawback is that the Zune is retailing for $175, but what you get, aside from a nice pink Zune is the feeling of doing something good because the proceeds go towards the Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

[Warriors in Pink]

Zune Originals adds new artwork, online exclusive colors

In addition to the new software and free Wi-Fi, Zune Originals has also received an little refresh with the introduction of the new Zune hardware. We have already seen the new Zune 120 and Zune 16 hit the retail stores in black, and now Zune Originals has also announced that the Zune 16 will be available in blue, red, pink and green as an online exclusive. Finally, customers will also have the option of choosing some new artwork as Zune Originals has added 14 new designs to give your Zune a little more of a personal feel.

[ZuneOriginals]

Microsoft officially lets the new Zune details out

I suppose this post comes as a little bit of bittersweet news considering we have already seen the details, but that said, Microsoft has chosen to officially unveil the details for the new Zune hardware and software.

So just for a quick recap, the new model of the Zune will be the black 120GB hard drive based model which will retail for $249 along with a 16GB flash based model which will retail for $199. Additionally the Zune 16 will also be available in blue. The Zune 8 will be priced at $149, and Microsoft also plans to lower the prices on some of the older models.

As for the software side, it looks like software version 3 will be available with those features that we mentioned earlier, which include Buy from FM, Device to Cloud, Channels and Games. Currently nothing was mentioned about when the new software will be made available for current Zune owners. Personally although I like the blue Zune 16 and the black backing on the Zune 120 I am more excited by the new software features and hope that will be ready soon.

If nothing else, I guess Amazon can go ahead and add that Zune 120 listing back to their website now.

[CNET]

Zune 120: The unofficial roll-out continues...or does it?

In addition to the listings over on Frys, another online retailer (Amazon) had ever so briefly list the Zune 120 for sale. Currently I have not seen any confirmed purchases through the Amazon store listing, but they have since removed it from the store, with the URL now going to a big'ol 404.

With just one day before Microsoft is expected to officially make the announcements, it seems Amazon has had a change of heart, one can only wonder whether Frys will do the same. Of course it seems that Frys is already in a little deeper with between their multiple leaks and at least one confirmed sale.

Funny thing is that when this listing was available on Amazon, there were eight vendors listed, of which seven was showing the Zune 120 as in-stock and even had expedited shipping available, and strangely the only one of the eight that was showing a "temporarily out of stock" notice was Amazon themselves.

At this point we can only hope the announcements come tomorrow, and put an end to this mess. Anyone interested in the larger capacity Zune, or what about the blue Zune 8, its pretty sharp looking.

[Amazon via Pocketables]

Frys leaks new Blue Zune 8 along with new features

Well, one can only speculate that Frys will either be in some big trouble with Microsoft, or perhaps Microsoft is trying something new to get a little attention and decided to allow them to intentionally leak, and in at least one instance sell the new Zunes to built up some excitement prior to the official release.

Of course the model that we saw sold, and later unboxed was the Zune 120, however the latest Frys leaks comes in the form of that rumored Zune 8 in Blue along with some previously unannounced new features. At least we can confirm that the Blue Zune rumor was indeed accurate, and furthermore its retailing for the $149.99 that we expected.

But perhaps a little more exciting than the Zune 8 in Blue, which personally I am digging the color is the newly listed features that it will come along with. Some of the leaked features include:

 

• Buy from FM which allows you to mark a song that you hear on the regular radio for later purchase.
• Device to Cloud which lets you use wireless hotspots to "update your collection, browse Zune Marketplace, refresh Channels, exchange favorites with friends, or buy songs you've tagged from your FM radio."
• Channels which allows you to create "custom programming stations that deliver personalized playlists to your Zune from a variety of sources."
• Games which seems to have come out of beta and become official. So far they have listed Texas Hold'em, Hexic as pre-loaded titles.

Now its seems we are just waiting for Microsoft to make this all 'official' but judging from what we have already seen I am not sure what else they could have in store for us.

[Frys] via Zunerama

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.

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.

Zune Special Edition: Reebok and Allen Iverson

Everyone knows that the Zune is running like hell behind the iPod and tries hard to still a market share from Apple’s famous mp3 player. But the Zune team brings this race a step further and has teamed up with Reebok to create a special edition of the Zune 8.

The new snicker-Zune package is in fact an Allen Iverson limited edition shoe combine with a black Zune 8.

”The sneakers will be sold with a customized Zune 8g black digital media player, featuring etched AI graphics on the back that is loaded with special AI content including his Reebok commercials, playlists and interview footage of other Reebok athletes talking about the first time they played against AI in the league. The sneakers and Zune media player will also come in special packaging.” Crave

The package will be available in June for a retail price of $300. The special Iverson shoe + Zune 8 package won’t be easy find as it will be available at only five retailers nationwide: Complex/Training Day Store (NYC), Major Commonwealth (DC), Commonwealth (VA), Wish (ATL), and The 400 (Denver). Even worst, each store will receive only twelve packages…We’re talking about a “very” limited edition here!

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.

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 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.

Another Zune commercial appears

I believe what we have here is another new Zune commercial [NOTE - this is actually an older commercial I hadn't seen before - oops: thanks for the notes on it - Nino] - this time for the Zune 4GB/8GB. It's trippy, in typical Zune commercial form. Enjoy...

UGO gives Zune 8GB thumbs up

A new review about the 8GB Zune has surfaced online, this time over at UGO. Reviewer Karim Tabar generally had good things to say about the Zune, with the pull quote for this review summing it all by stating "watch out, Steve Jobs, you can actually learn a thing or two from Bill Gates' Zune."

In his short review Tabar examined design, features and software of the 8GB model. He found it be "one of the slickest pieces of hardware" he has seen. He was also particularly happy with the FM radio and it's ability to provide song information on-screen.

It is refreshing to see reviews of the second generation Zunes being more positive than the first go around. That's one thing you can generally count on Microsoft to do - learn from its mistakes and improve for the next time around.

Zune skins available now!

You can now get a skin for your Zune from either DecalGirl.com or Tattooyouripod.com, and they have a little bit of variety. They are now going for $6 on Decalgirl for the 4/8GB (80gb not available on Decalgirl yet), and $9.95 from Tattooyouripod for the 4/8gb (80GB not available from Tattooyouripod yet either.)

Unfortunately, you can't get one for an 80GB yet (because these companies probably haven't been able to get an 80GB Zune to get the dimensions of the skins?), but you can at least get one for your 4/8 GB Zune. I don't think I'm going to get one, seeing as I already have an invisibleshield screen and body protector on mine, so I don't need it.

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.

Buy a Zune 8 for $179.99

I was reading this post from Zunethoughts about how you can import a Zune to Canada by ecost, and noticed that the Zune 8 is already discounted on the online store. That's right, you can buy a Zune 8 for $179.99 and a Zune 4 for $139.99.

Have you spotted other good deals for the Zune 4 and 8?

Ok, I know, you won't get the fun of shopping for real in a crowded Black Friday, but you'll at least save $20!

Zune 8 Review: My Girlfriend Likes it Too!

We’ve seen Sam’s Zune 8 unboxing video, but here’s my shot on the Red Zune 8.

How do you know if a product is ready for mass market and if it has the potential to become a real hit in sales? Well, the answer is simple, you ask my girlfriend! Valerie does not have the geek profile at, all and electronic toys are not her thing. But even though she’s not a gadget lover like you and me, when a product is extremely well designed, she’s attracted to it. Last year, when the Zune 30 came out, she literally turned her back on it and said it was ugly, bulky and not appealing like her cute little iPod nano. She was right; the Zune 30 won’t be remembered as a design wonder of the 21st century...

 

This year, Valerie went to Target to buy a red Zune 8 for me. You know want? She couldn’t resist and she opened the box on her way back home! When she came in, she said, “You not what, I could use one of these…”. That’s it folks, I can tell you, that means that Zune 4 and 8 can attract women and this is a major milestone for the Zune. You can’t just release a pink color device to grab a woman’s attention. You have to think about what women want, and I think that the Flash Zune has achieved that this year with the new devices.

Zune 8 GB Unbox video

I know I'm a little late for this one, but I just got my Zune 80 on release date, and today I finally got my Zune 8 from Best Buy.com (even though I payed for express shipping.) Well, here is my video, and I also compared it to the other Zunes.

The Citron Zune is 16GB?

It seems that the new Yellow Zune is a 16gb  player, which is a first, seeing as we've never heard of a Zune with this capacity before. I hope they get this to market soon, and hopefully in the future they'll have even higher capacities, like 32gb Zunes! Anyways, I'm kind of angry now, because my Zune 8GB is already coming in tomorrow, so there is nothing I can do about it. Enjoy the pics.

Picture 1, Picture 2, Picture 3

Source

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.

New Zune 8 Cases from DLO

DLO released a new Zune 8 case called the HipCase. The new leather sleeve-style case features a leather covered belt-clip and a full screen protection. All ports and controls are available at all time – which means you can plug in and sync your Zune without having to remove it from your HipCase.  The good news is we don’t need to connect the Zune to the PC to sync it anymore. Thanks to the awesome Zune wireless sync. Unfortunately, we still can’t charge the battery wirelessly… Maybe next year?

Back to more serious things, the HipCase cost $29.99 and is available online now.

Here are the highlights of this new Zune 8 case:

• Sleek leather sleeve with soft, green fabric interior
• Full-screen protection provides play-through access to Zune controls
• Total access to Zune headphone jack and bottom connector port
• Belt clip keeps Zune securely at your side
• Compatible with Zune 4GB and 8GB players

More pictures after the jump.

Yellow Zunes do Exist. But They're not for You!

Bill from Zuneguy shed the light on the Citron Zune Sam talked about yesterday:

"They do exist. They are the ship-gifts given to the team for launching the product. Just like last year when we gave out Magenta and Orange devices, these are a special run just for us. There you have it, mystery solved."

Well, don’t be too disappointed if you were expecting a Yellow Zune in the near future. My bet is that we’re going to see many new Zune colors and limited edition Zunes in the next 6-months. Just like last year.

Keep an eye on ebay though...One might appear sooner than later! Who wants to start IWantaYellowZune.com?

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 8GB and 4GB Brochures

The folks over at ZuneScene got their hands on some Zune Brochures. Check the other picture after the brreak.

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

Zune 4 and 8 will apparently have no video out

According to Zuneinsider, the Zune 4 and 8 will not have video out. The 720x480 output is only for the Zune 80. Oh well, the Zune 4 and 8 probably wouldn't fit many DVD movies to output onto a lager screen anyways.

Zune 30 Owners: Will you Buy a New Zune?

Opinion Polls & Market Research

How do you know if a company is in a business for the long haul or not? Well, when you make sure that your old product stays up to date at the same time has you release a new product line; it’s a good indication that investment is not a problem and you’re in the market for good.

Apple reached the 100 million+ iPods sold by releasing new products every year and making sure that the previous iPod version was completely outdated. They might have sold more than 100 million iPods, but their customer base is much smaller than that number, because a lot of folks are simply buying the new model year after year.

As early adopters of the Zune, we appreciate that our Zune 30 will be upgraded with most of the benefits of the Zune 80, 4 and 8. But will it stop a lot of Zune owners from buying a brand new Zune? Certainly not me! I’m dying for the thinner Zune, the Zune Pad and the 640x480 TV out. But you, Zune 30 owners? What are you going to do? Are you going to buy a new Zune 80? Cast your vote now or enter your comment!

 

Do we say “Zune 80” or “Zune 80GB”?

It looks like there’s a bit of confusion on the web around the new Zune player names. Do we call them Zune 30, 80, 4 and 8 or Zune 30B, Zune 80GB, 4GB and 8GB?

If you read the official Microsoft press release, the official names seem to be the “GB” versions. But when we listen to interviews or read the Zuneinsider blog, for example, the “GB” is skipped.

Having to write for this blog, I wanted to know how I should write the product names! I contacted Kristin from the “Zune press team” and here’s the answer I had:

“Can totally understand the confusion, and actually, both are correct. In conversation, we only call the devices Zune 80, Zune 8 and Zune 4, but in print, you can choose to add the “GB” or not.”

Personally, I think that it sounds better without the “GB” and it gives the Zune more “personality”.  But from a mass market standpoint, adding the “GB” will help the customer to understand what he will get from a specific model.

Which one do you prefer? Do you like how they called the Zunes now?

New Zune Players Release Date: November 13th, 2007!

Zuners, mark your calendars! Amazon takes pre-orders for the Zune 80GB, Zune 8GB and Zune 4Gb now and confirms that the release date for the Zune 2 is November 13^th, 2007. UPDATE: You heard it here first, but Microsoft confirmed the information to Gizmodo. Guys, you're getting a brand new Zune on November 13th!

The New Zunes are not Manufactured by Toshiba

According to Reuters, the new Zune is an end-to-end Microsoft design and Toshiba is no longer the Zune player manufacturer.

The new 80 GB Zune and the Flash Zune are both in-house designs and manufactured by Flextronics.

J Allard said, "To build this product, we really needed to think about it end-to-end,". He also added, "It also brings with it cost advantages."

 

Source. Image by Wired