We all knew it was coming, but Microsoft made official the fact that new Zune units will be hitting the shelves next month. Though “Zune 2.0” has been a term being thrown around a lot, Microsoft is not referring to their new products as such. This makes sense, as even the previous-gen Zunes are able to utilize the new 2.x firmware.
Included in the new line-up is a 4GB and 8GB flash-based Zune and also an 80GB HD-based model, which was to be expected. The new models beef up the feature-set and many are quite worthwhile. Microsoft is pushing the “social” aspect with the launch of a revamped community feature. How well that will take off will be yet to be seen, but it’s clear that Microsoft isn’t sitting around twiddling their thumbs. I could sure go for some Linux support, though…
We’re expanding our family of devices with the addition of three new digital media players: Zune 4GB, Zune 8GB and Zune 80GB. The sleek, black Zune 80GB hard-drive model has a bright 3.2-inch screen and comes with new Zune Premium Headphones; the ultraportable Zune 4GB and Zune 8GB flash models are both available in pink, green, black and glossy red.
Source: Zune.net