The confirmation reveals Microsoft's first known conservative update to the Zune, which was introduced with just one model in November 2006 but was expanded a year later with a redesigned core model as well as the first flash-based devices. Most anticipate the company to follow a similar pattern as with the previous two generations, which were announced in September of their respective years.

Apple is believed to be planning a larger iPod update but is ironically rumored to be adopting a more Zune-like shape for the iPod nano with a tall, narrow screen in place of the short and squat third-generation player. Microsoft however has not said whether it has any immediate plans for a touchscreen device like the iPod touch.