Blue Zune spotted in Target ad

Microsoft could be preparing one last special color for the Zune before it's replaced with a new model, an image in Target's weekly flyer suggests. The September 9-15 issue of the ad shows a cobalt-like blue version of the 30GB player in the same design as previous models, complete with a lighter blue double-shot trim similar to the black model. Features also appear identical with an FM radio and the same sharing-only Wi-Fi access.

Pricing in the flyer is the same $200 as the device has held since its recent price drop, indicating that the blue model would be another special edition rather than evidence of a sequel appearing early. The new Zune casts doubts on the possibility of a near-term revamp of the media player's line and suggests that the heavily rumored 80GB version will not be available until late in the fall.