MICROSOFT WILL SOON release the Zune MP3 player. The company hopes that it will give competition to Apple’s iPod.

 

Zune MP3 has a three-inch screen, built-in FM radio tuner and wireless transfer capabilities between other Zune players.

 

Zune incorporates hardware and software components branded by Microsoft. Other unique features include the ability to view movies sideways — similar to a letterbox with the wider screen, Wi-Fi connection capability, and music service with a community approach that will offer a flat-rate unlimited music download subscription.

 

Regardless of how Zune fares on its debut, its introduction to the portable music player landscape means more competition for iPods and better deals for customers. The Zune release date is slated for November 14, 2006. The retail price will be $249.99 for a 30GB memory and some preloaded contents - 9 audio tracks, 12 music videos, and 3 short films.

 

The Zune player will take Microsoft further deep into the tech revolution. The company is busy developing portable devices, which will be compatible with the evolving popular taste. Whether Zune will be successful in invading the iPod market is something that remains to be seen.