Microsoft: "New Zune hardware this year"

 

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By Dave Stevenson

Posted on 16 Apr 2009 at 11:14

The internet is ablaze with rumours the third generation Zune is set for launch, replete with a host of new features and a UK release date.

Windows Mobile fansite WMPoweruser.com has posted conceptual artwork of the new player, which suggests it will be a touchscreen-only device, and claims it will "support wireless sync" and a "browser that supports multi-touch."

The site also reports the new device, which it claims will be called the ZuneHD, will "support 3D Xbox games, but it is unclear what form this will take."

Most interestingly, various sites suggest the Zune will no longer be exclusive to the USA, with the UK prominent on the list of prospective markets.

The rumours of a new Zune arrive less than a month after Steve Ballmer told BusinessWeek that Microsoft was "going to keep going with Zune" and that the company would "sustain our investment" in the device.

The rumours also tie in with comments from Microsoft's Zune Group Manager, Brian Seitz, on Twitter that there would be "new zune hardware this year".

As of press time, Microsoft hadn't responded to our requests for comment, so it could all come to nothing. You'll know when we do.

Read PC Pro's review of the original Zune here.