New Zunes on the Horizon

Microsoft has announced that they will be releasing new Zunes in November. The 80 GB hard drive Zune will be available in black with a 3.2 inch screen and sell for $250. This model is the most similar to the current Zune being sold. The new slimmer Zunes will be available in a 4GB and 8GB that uses flash memory. Flash memory has no moving parts, which is a big plus for people who are hard on their devices. The 4GB and 8GB models will come in pink, green, black, and glossy red. It looks like the smaller Zunes will sell for $149.

Both new models will come with the ability to sync wirelessly and will extend the wireless sharing function. The Zune will get new touch controls as well, which I imagine will be like the current iPod controls. Also getting a facelift is the Zune Marketplace. Microsoft hasn’t said much more than this on their Zune website, but as the month goes on I am sure they will have more teaser information posted.

What’s that you say? You already have a Zune? No problem…Microsoft intends to push out Marketplace and firmware updates so that current Zune owners can get the new features on their players.

iHop For My iFrogz

Whether you own a Zune or iPod (or are looking at buying one), one place that has really cool cases for them is a company called iFrogz. I own two of the custom silicone cases for my 30GB iPod Video and I love them. They’re thick and don’t attract lint (which is important for a neat freak like me). The cases I have come with a wrap that covers the whole iPod except for the screen an click wheel, a screen protector, a band that goes around the outside of the device to protect your ports, and a sticker to cover the click wheel. All are customizable. Mainly I bought mine for protection (and it does a wonderful job of that!), but the pretty colors and cool picture for the click wheel sticker are a definite perk. The Zune doesn’t have all of the same options since you really can’t cover the controls with a sticker easily and still have it usable, but you still get the screen protector, band, and wrap. They even have cases for the Shuffle, Nano, and iPhone. They currently have a special going on where you can get 50% off if you order before September 16th, so if you’re interested stop by their site before then.

The Zune Gets a New Price Tag

Looks like Microsoft is getting the price slashing bug as well. The Zune, Microsoft’s MP3 player that is a competitor to the iPod, was cut by $50 last Wednesday bringing it to $199. Seems like it didn’t get as much press as the iPhone price cut, but then again it didn’t quite tick as many people off either. I’d actually probably consider a Zune for my next MP3 player. Not that I don’t like my iPod, but if I had to buy another one I’d have a hard time deciding between an iPod Classic and the Zune. And the price cut helps too. :) The main reason I purchased a iPod this last time around is that I thought the screen looked a little crisper and brighter. I was also used to the iPods since I owned a Mini prior to my 30GB iPod Video. However, a $50 difference would be a factor if I had to make that decision now.