The recently released Microsoft Zune 80GB is not only a technology wunderkind, it creates a members only exclusive galleria of services and accouterments. Competing with the popular iPod is a challenge which required some thought provoking strategies. The Zune 80GB provides a 3.2” screen and a sleek/thin casing with a customizable text and graphics design.

Microsoft employed the talents of 18 international artists to produce Zune art that can be ordered at the time of purchase from Zuneorginals dot net. The Zune 80GB costs $249. Enhancing your Zune with one of the exclusive 27 original designs and text is free. This feature appears to be offered exclusively on-line. The cost of the Zune is retail stores and outlets is the same as ordering directly from Microsoft.

Best Features of the Zune 80GB:

The Zune 80GB player has wireless capability. This requires a wireless set up from your PC utilizing the Sync feature. The Zune may be synchronized with your PC to allow for updates, access to your PC library of music or podcasts. This can be done while the Zune is charging from the PC or in its dock.

The earphones supplied with the Zune 80GB are astounding. The noise reduction earphone devices are upscale and can be compared to sophisticated devices costing $50 or more.

The new Zune software allows users to do a refined search of their existing downloads, search for new music on the Zune markeplace by artist or song title. The drag and drop music feature is a vast improvement in their previous model. The touch pad is easy to use and nearly mistake proof.

The sound quality is excellent and can be accessorised or utilize other Microsoft products by using the USB 2.0 for transfers. The new Zune allows transfers to friends with Zune devices for three plays of a particular song. In addition for a $14.95 fee per month, Zune owners can purchase a Zune Pass which provides a broad line of songs for limitless downloads. . Albums can also be purchased through the marketplace.

Microsoft has engaged the services of some up and coming video artists in addition to established artists to present exclusive presentations. Some examples include, Freeway's track Where Have You Been is offered free to Zune members. In addition, Zune members can partake of “Le Cadeau du Temps,” an exclusive fusion of art and music by the trend setters Corey Godbey and Maps. This is the future of hand-held devices.

For social networking, Zune has a members only, exclusive Zune social club. There is no charge and members have the ability to share music, ideas, and videos.

Some Considerations:

The file sharing limitation imposed by Microsoft for sharing among fellow Zune owners should be removed. The idea of limiting shared music to three plays seems to defeat the purpose of Microsoft determination to compete with Apple. The only comparably priced model in Apple is the iPod Classic 80GB. If Microsoft were to remove restrictions on the number of plays it could convince current iPod 30GB owners to move to Zune 80GB. The lower capacity iPod Touch 16 GB costs $150. more than the Zune 80GB and it has less versatility and included accessories. Product loyalty aside, the partnerships and associations with the artists may be the tipping point in favor of Microsoft's Zune.