The rumor surrounding the possiblity of a new Zune player has turned out to be partially true, say those familiar with the device. Although it had been hinted that the device would be announced today, a new Zune is reportedly being shown to developers to help with their development. The actual product release will follow later, the contact says.

However, initial reactions to the device suggest that its design and features aren't a radical departure from those which actual buyers first saw with the 30GB hard disk model. The new jukebox is only mildly exciting at best, first-hand accounts note. Particular reasons for the impressions haven't been given.

Microsoft has so far kept the Zune untouched since its release in November, releasing only pink Zunes and exclusive special editions.