Zune HD Amazon listing hints apps, Xbox link
updated 08:50 am EDT, Wed June 3, 2009
Zune HD on Amazon
A listing for the Zune HD has appeared on Amazon today that hints at broader support for software on Microsoft's media player. Its description indicates that owners can "play games and use apps" using the accelerometer, suggesting both the expected third-party games as well as possible third-party apps; notably, Zune HD images to date have shown a "more" option that suggests additional features. The possibility remains that Microsoft is referring to built-in utilities like the photo viewer and web browser, both of which use the accelerometer for rotation.
Microsoft also reiterates the Xbox Live connection, which it failed to fully explain at its E3 presentation on Monday. The Zune is a "first slot" on the Xbox Video Marketplace and is integrated with Xbox Live, the company claims, implying that videos accessed from the Xbox 360 should be playable on the Zune. The company has alternately promised and hinted at Xbox and Zune integration but so far has only rebranded the Xbox Video Marketplace.
The listing doesn't provide a reliable clue as to the Zune HD's release date and incorrectly shows September 8th of last year.
Flash
06/03, 09:47am reply
Support for Flash apps and -web content would make this a killer device, lolz
Peter Bonte
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Aug 2001
Awesome...
06/03, 01:16pm reply
I can just see developers that are writing for the Apple mobile platform leaving in droves to write applications for the Zune HD....NOT. MS has to be kidding. They really enjoy copying everything Apple does. They're just tacking on stuff whenever something jumps into their head with no real plan.
I think they'd already said that the Zune wasn't really going to have a sophisticated OS in it. Let the Zune just do videos and music and maybe if it's good enough it will attract buyers. No point in going head-to-head with the iPod Touch. That'll just leave MS in a world of pain.
Constable Odo
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Joined: Aug 2007