Zune HD 64GB due April 12

Microsoft at mid-day confirmed the existence of a 64GB version of the Zune HD. The new player can hold about 16,000 songs (6,400 at the Zune Marketplace's 320Kbps) and is treated as an HD video specialist with about 20 hours of 720p. Shipments start April 12th and will consciously undercut its iPod touch equivalent at $350 for similar space.

Other capacities are also now receiving a more permanent price drop and will cost $200 for a 16GB player and $270 for a 32GB edition. All three models will have access to the same colors and artwork.

The price slash has come while Microsoft has still been struggling to increase its market share in the dedicated media player business. It encountered brief sellouts on launch but quickly settled down. Mid-cycle price cuts have been common in the Zune's history as it has often had to use cost to sustain interest until a replacement.

By Electronista Staff