Microsoft Zune

Associated With

Microsoft - creator or operator

Defining Feature

A 30GB media player with wireless device-to-device sharing, FM radio and a three-inch screen

Status

Discontinued - Historical product; the selected records document its 2006 launch model

Overview

Microsoft unveiled Zune in September 2006 as a 30GB wireless music and video player for the US market.

The launch model had a three-inch screen and built-in FM tuner. Nearby devices could share selected music, pictures and home recordings, while Zune Marketplace and Zune Pass provided music access.

It reached US shops on 14 November in black, brown and white. Microsoft announced an estimated retail price of $249.99 and availability through nearly 30,000 outlets.

Why It Mattered

Zune treated portable music as something that could be shared as well as carried. Its wireless features and subscription service looked towards connected listening.

Launch Hardware

• The launch model provided 30GB of storage, a three-inch screen and a built-in FM tuner.
• It was sold in black, brown and white.

Wireless Sharing

• Nearby Zune devices could share selected music, pictures and home recordings wirelessly.
• Received full-length sample tracks could be played up to three times in three days and could not be re-sent.
• Microsoft also offered music access through a Zune Pass subscription.

United States Retail Launch

• The player launched in the United States on 14 November 2006.
• Microsoft announced an estimated retail price of $249.99 and availability through nearly 30,000 outlets.

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