"What we know, think we know, and don't yet know about the Zune" Engadget is known for breaking huge tech news, and has gotten even more concrete information on the Zune, and also tells what they think they know (and pretty sure they know) will happen, and what they don't know yet.

Some interesting things they know:

* Zune is the name of the project, the brand, and the device.

* The first Zune device will be launched this year, with more devices to come in 2007.

* The Zune brand encompasses not only the device, but the software that will drive it, as well as a music, movie, and media service the Zune device family will use for acquiring, sharing, and discovery of said media. Music will be the first angle of service that is launched, "connected entertainment" being the ultimate goal.

* The Zune media device will be drive-based, and have WiFi.

* The Zune brand is intended to be an entirely vertically integrated end-to-end solution, not unlike the iPod / iTunes / iTunes Music Store triumvirate.

What they think they know, and are pretty sure of:

* They'll be showing off the device by the end of next month, and will aim for a November release.

* Microsoft will buy your way out of iTunes in order to convert you to a Zune user.

* Pyxis is the codename for their nano competitor which would also include video capabilities; Alexandria is the codename for the software that powers the Zune experience.

* A Microsoft portable gaming system is in the works, and will be a part of the Zune family. This device should have Xbox Live Anywhere integration. This may or may not be an Xbox co-branded portable, but is probably going to be the portable gaming / media device we've been hearing about for years.

Engadget is pretty much in the know when it comes to these things, so I am betting that they are hitting the nail on the head with this. Stay Zuned.

  ¶ posted by Jimmie Geddes, Editor @ 7/21/2006 06:00:00 PM