Let me start off this review by saying I'm pretty non-biased when it comes to technology products, unlike some people who have already reviewed this product in a completely idiotic and non-informal way. I own an iPhone (comparable to the iPod Touch) and a previous-gen Zune 80GB. So let's start off the review by discussing why I think this product is far superior to the iPod Touch:
-OLED Screen
The screen allows for crisper colors than the iPod Touch can handle (deeper blacks for instance). This is going to be fantastic for watching movies and playing games.
-Slickest UI on the market
Have you seen videos of this device in action? It's drop dead beautiful. The UI is extremely slick and very visual. Unlike the iPod Touch, Microsoft has focused on working with high end typography and insanely modern visual techniques to create a really rich experience. The iPod Touch's interface is very static in comparison. The Zune HD offers information about artists, pictures of artists, and other small but rich details when you listen to a song all in a very graphical way (without even having to connect to Wifi).
-Internet browser
The browser on the Zune is just as good as Mobile Safair on the iPod Touch/iPhone. It's nothing revolutionary but it's a nice feature. It features everything you'd expect in a browser today, tap to zoom and a quick and easy multi-touch keyboard.
-HD Radio
This is some very cool new technology. Apple just finally offered FM radio in the iPod Nano (something the original Zune 30gb had). HD radio is being more widely adopted in many markets. It's a great way to hear new types of music as the stations are a lot more vast and focused on new markets where FM radio has become very static and predictable. There is also an FM radio for your enjoyment as well.
-Zune 4.0 Software is EXCELLENT
Are you a music lover? Drop iTunes. The Zune 4.0 software is for people who love music. It includes some of the best ways to organize your albums and also is very ahead in terms of design. iTunes 9.0 attempted to catch up with the Zune software but still falls flat. The Zune software has tons of very rich gradients and free flowing animations that make it a very breathtaking experience. With the Zune software you can also get a Zune pass and stream millions of songs for a low monthly rate.
-Dedicated Apps/Game
As already confirmed, the Zune has dedicated applications and games. Unlike the iPod/iPhone's app store though, Microsoft has decided to focus on working hand in hand with 3rd party developers instead of releasing a SDK kit for users to create their own games/apps. Some people may look at this as very negative, but I see a far more positive side to this. On my iPhone I have several games and apps, all of which usually fall flat to what they could be. Too many apps being released are ridiculously retarded like "fart apps". A game already confirmed is a Project Gotham Racing game, which will probably be similar to the experience on the Xbox/Xbox 360. Microsoft will also be releasing a Twitter app, Facebook, and others by the end of the year. More information: "Later this year, Zune plans to release free applications such as Twitter for Zune and Facebook for Zune, in addition to fun 3-D games such as "Project Gotham Racing: Ferrari Edition," "Vans Sk8: Pool Service" and "Audiosurf(TM) Tilt." Games can be added to Zune HD via Zune Marketplace over the Wi-Fi connection or when connected to the Zune PC software."
All I can seriously suggest is be open-minded to the Zune experience. Just because all your friends/family have an iPod/iPod Touch doesn't make it the best on the market right now. The Zune HD's technology is superior in the marketplace right now. The entire experience on the Zune is also really well thought out and gives music lovers (myself and hopefully you if you're reading this!) a great way to see information on your favorite artists/songs. Overall, the Zune HD is an amazing product. Buy it now if you're a fan of music and want a great overall ecosystem being constantly updated by Microsoft. Get more detail about Zune HD 32 GB Video MP3 Player (Platinum).
0 comments:
Post a Comment