Microsoft poised to launch flash Zunes

 

Gallery

By Barry Collins

Posted on 2 Oct 2007 at 10:51

Microsoft is set to introduce its first flash-based Zune players, according to industry rumours.

The company will launch the new players in a bid to regain lost ground on Apple's recently revamped iPod line-up.

Microsoft's flash-based Zunes will reportedly include built-in Wi-Fi and come in larger capacities than the current iPod nano range.

The software giant has achieved a modicum of success with its original Zune player: it now boasts 10% of the market for HDD players in the US, having sold more than a million units.

UK buyers are yet to get their hands on the Zune player, although there >have been reports that the company will launch the devices in this country before Christmas.

The current Zune line-up is restricted to a single box-shaped design that comes in five different colours, with a capacity of 30GB.

Microsoft is also expected to announce a revamped Zune Community site, which will presumably encourage owners to make wider use of the device's much-vaunted Wi-Fi sharing capabilities.