Nearly two years after Apple took off with its iPod Touch device, Microsoft has decided to release its Zune HD into the mix.
Surprisingly it has some impressive specs, and this coming from an iPhone fanboy.
So lets jump into the break down.
Screen
The Screen on the new Zune HD is OLED while iPod Touch’s 2nd Generation uses LCD. Very new to the mobile market, OLED has shown that it has the capability of lowering power consumption for much longer battery life. I would have to give the screen technology and perhaps even the battery life to Microsoft’s Zune HD. Aspect ratio is matched, but screen size and resolution is slightly larger on the iPod Touch still.
Features
Wifi is still matched as the Zune has always carried Wifi, but the big breakout for Microsoft is the HD Radio. Many have been wanting an FM receiver internally in there iPod as I do but Apple had never answered.. Microsoft has one upped that request and and made another selling point with HD Radio.
Software
Now to the software, which I personally think is what makes or breaks a Media Player. I would say confidently that Microsoft for the first 6 months will not be able to come close to the software on the iPod Touch. The Appstore developer community size is amazing and Microsoft has a lot of catching up to do if they want to compete. From the Screenshots of the Zune HD it seems to be running a revised Zune OS which is likely but some rumors have been coming that this is new form of Windows Mobile. Does that mean a Zune Phone may be coming?
Pricing
This is a chance for Microsoft to shine and they have came out publicly and said they plan to do just that. They are looking to price the Zune HD $99 less than the iPod Touch 2g’s equivalent capacity. Talk about another selling point.
Apple, still in my eyes has been a company of quality over quantity. Yes this may put a small dent in the iPod Touch sales, but Apple will still be dominating the Media Player market in a year I predict.
Also Don’t forget WWDC around the corner (June 8th)and you never know what Apple will unveil that may just up-show Microsoft again.
UPDATE: 08/31/09
If you have not heard apple has announced “It’s only rock and roll,” event which is practically guaranteed the release of the new iPod Touch 3rd Gen, and the rumored iPod Nano 5th Gen which will be the true device to compare side by side. Rumor has it that these badboys are sporting a new fancy 4 MP camera, with video recording features.
*UPDATE*
Check out our new ZUNE HD VS iPOD TOUCH 3G in-depth side by side comparison.
- Joe
HD Radio is awesome for listening to am stations on fm hd.