Microsoft have blindsided us with a double whammy. Not only is a 64GB version of the Zune HD confirmed, but the 64GB release will coincide with firmware update v4.5 of the Zune HD.
The updated firmware marks much-needed/anticipated additions to the Zune operating system. Some of the changes are said to include Smart DJ mix, personalized recommendations, and Marketplace support for TV.
Smart DJ is a catch-up feature to the iPod’s Genius technology. What makes it an awesome addition is the fact that consumers will be able to use it to stream content from the Zune Marketplace. Pandora anybody?
The biggest news is added video codec support. That’s right, Microsoft have announced support for Xvid, part of full compatibility with MPEG-4 part 2 Advanced Simple Profile. We would go more in-depth on the added features, but there’s no need to – check out the video below…
Getting back to that 64GB version, the device now has its own dedicated product page. Nope, nothing new other than the increased storage capacity.
The 64GB version will set you back $349.99, which is much cheaper than the pesky 64GB iPod Touch (currently priced at $399.99); although, the 64GB range is yet to appear on any major online retailers.
Related posts:
Subscribe to RSS
Microsoft Releases Firmware v4.5 For Zune
on Apr 6th, 2010
@ 7:02 am:
[...] Microsoft has recently released the new firmware update v4.5 for the Zune HD. The new firmware update adds several improvements to the gadget including Smart DJ mix, personalized recommendations, and Marketplace support for TV. The Smart DJ is a catch-up feature to the iPod’s Genius technology that allows users to stream content from the Zune Marketplace. In addition, Microsoft has also confirmed the availability of the 64GB version of Zune HD. The 64GB version will retail for $349.99 a pop, which is cheaper than the 64GB iPod Touch. Watch the video after the jump. [Playerbites] [...]