Microsoft SA is uncertain when the Zune digital music player will make its local appearance. Microsoft issued a statement yesterday saying Zune would make its US debut in November.
The local office was reacting to Microsoft`s announcement which gave some details of the Zune digital music player and the "Zune Marketplace" service that it wants to become the foundation for an online community to share music.
Microsoft SA says it has received no indication yet of when Zune will make its local appearance, but expects it will around the same time as when it makes its international debut.
John Stokes, MD of Inxcon, the software house that built the Pick 'n Play online music store, says: "We developed Pick 'n Play with the Zune player in mind and Microsoft has assured us that it meets all its specifications, including digital management rights. However, we have not physically seen a Zune player yet and are not sure when we will get one."
Microsoft`s US announcement comes a day after rival Apple made public the upgrade to its iTunes service, which is not available in this country. iTunes will now have full length feature films available for downloading. Apple also introduced a new colour range for its iPod digital music players, which are available locally.
"The Zune device features wireless technology, a built-in FM tuner and a bright, 3-inch (7.62cm) screen that allows users to not only show off music, pictures and video, but also to customise the experience with personal pictures or themes to truly make the device their own. Zune comes in three colours: black, brown and white," a Microsoft statement says.
Microsoft also says it will add phone functionality to Zune devices in the future.
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