Microsoft on Friday confirmed rumors that it would soon be releasing a digital media player to challenge Apple Computer’s popular iPod, and the Redmond, Wash.-based software giant said the device and its associated software and download service will be marketed under the name “Zune,” Reuters reports.The Zune products will be available by the end of the year, according to Reuters.Over the past few weeks, stories and blog posts regarding Microsoft’s possible release of a digital media player to rival the iPod have flooded the Internet. Reuters recently reported that the device would be available by Christmas, citing sources close to the project. Engadget.com released what it said was an early picture of the Zune prototype that was being developed under the name “Argo,” in reference to Greek Mythology’s Jason and his massive warship. SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER From our editors straight to your inbox Get started by entering your email address below. Please enter a valid email address Subscribe Until Friday, Microsoft refused to confirm or deny any of the rumors about the device’s upcoming release. Related Links: Microsoft ‘Argo’ iPod Challenger Revealed Microsoft iPod Challenger Due by Holiday Season Valve Amplifiers Give iPod a Retro TouchThis article is posted on our Microsoft Informer page. For more news on the Redmond, Wash.-based powerhouse, keep checking in. Check out our CIO News Alerts and Tech Informer pages for more updated news coverage. Related content feature Gen AI success starts with an effective pilot strategy To harness the promise of generative AI, IT leaders must develop processes for identifying use cases, educate employees, and get the tech (safely) into their hands. By Bob Violino Sep 27, 2023 10 mins Generative AI Innovation Emerging Technology feature A fluency in business and tech yields success at NATO Manfred Boudreaux-Dehmer speaks with Lee Rennick, host of CIO Leadership Live, Canada, about innovation in technology, leadership across a vast cultural landscape, and what it means to hold the inaugural CIO role at NATO. By CIO staff Sep 27, 2023 6 mins CIO IT Skills Innovation feature The demand for new skills: How can CIOs optimize their team? By Andrea Benito Sep 27, 2023 3 mins opinion The CIO event of the year: What to expect at CIO100 ASEAN Awards By Shirin Robert Sep 26, 2023 3 mins IDG Events IT Leadership Podcasts Videos Resources Events SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER From our editors straight to your inbox Get started by entering your email address below. Please enter a valid email address Subscribe