Microsoft, the world’s largest producer of software, is preparing a digital music and video player, as well as a download service, to compete with Cupertino, Calif.-based Apple Computer’s immensely popular iPod entertainment device and iTunes Music Store, Reuters reports.The news comes from sources familiar with the initiative who spoke with Reuters on Friday.The same sources also told Reuters that Redmond, Wash.-based Microsoft has already spoken with music industry representatives in regards to the establishment of its own music download service.Gates Inc. is developing a digital entertainment device that will play music and video to compete with Apple and Creative, the number-two provider of digital music players in the world, the sources told Reuters, though they did not provide an estimated launch date for the device or the music service. Apple and Microsoft did not immediately provide Reuters with a comment on the subject.Related Link: Microsoft, Toshiba, Victor to Build iPod Rival for Japan Apple Looks Into iPod China Sweatshop Report Creative: Apple Patent to Be Investigated by ITC 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 brandpost Sponsored by Freshworks When your AI chatbots mess up AI ‘hallucinations’ present significant business risks, but new types of guardrails can keep them from doing serious damage By Paul Gillin Dec 08, 2023 4 mins Generative AI brandpost Sponsored by Dell New research: How IT leaders drive business benefits by accelerating device refresh strategies Security leaders have particular concerns that older devices are more vulnerable to increasingly sophisticated cyber attacks. By Laura McEwan Dec 08, 2023 3 mins Infrastructure Management case study Toyota transforms IT service desk with gen AI To help promote insourcing and quality control, Toyota Motor North America is leveraging generative AI for HR and IT service desk requests. By Thor Olavsrud Dec 08, 2023 7 mins Employee Experience Generative AI ICT Partners feature CSM certification: Costs, requirements, and all you need to know The Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) certification sets the standard for establishing Scrum theory, developing practical applications and rules, and leading teams and stakeholders through the development process. By Moira Alexander Dec 08, 2023 8 mins Certifications IT Skills Project Management 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