by CIO Staff

Microsoft ‘Zune’ iPod Challenger Confirmed by Redmond

News
Jul 21, 20062 mins
Consumer Electronics

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.

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 Touch

This 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.