Microsoft's iPod killer?
Engadget has news about how Microsoft is about to unleash what it hopes to be an iPod killer. Due in November, the portable audio and video player will have a screen that is...
"bigger than that of the iPod video" and built-in WiFi so you can not only download content directly to the player (sort of like with the MusicGremlin), but actually participate in an Xbox Live-like social network that will help you connect with other people with similar taste and interests.
But it gets better. To attract current iPod users Microsoft is going to let you download for free any songs you've already bought from the iTunes Music Store. They'll actually scan iTunes for purchased tracks and then automatically add those to your account. Microsoft will still have to pay the rights-holders for the songs, but they believe it'll be worth it to acquire converts to their new player.
http://www.siliconbeat.com/cgi-bin/mt331/mt-tb.cgi/1553
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Please remember that Microsoft's bark is always bigger than its bite.
They singlehandedly release the best vaporware in the world, bar none.
patrick on July 7, 2006 11:18 AMComment link
Just about every major player has come out with an "iPod-Killer" product and failed. Sony, Creative, Dell are just a few who have failed.. WiFi enabled? yeah, those batteries will last 'maybe' 40 minutes with that enabled and receiving data. Apple has perfected the plug-and-play ability with the iPod and iTunes (microsoft has really tried to copy that), but will most likely lack the "cool factor" associated with the iPod. I wouldn't trade in my old iPod for a new one of these for free, let alone have to buy one.. At least with the iPod you know that they (apple) are successful with it, won't abandon it (like others) and that there are TONS of aftermarket accessories made for it... Good luck to those that buy this from Microsoft...
Gordon Bell on July 7, 2006 11:57 AMComment link
It is possible to to have Wifi enabled devices to last 2-3 days, if the battery size are of 2500MAh vs. curent one 1200Mah. There are ultra Low Power 802.11 g Radio's in market such as NanoRadio, CSR, Atheros Quorom systems etc...
Nokia is working on Introducing WiFi enabled handsets, So Microsoft ( I would hate to support) is not off at all about WiFi enabled devices!
RK on July 7, 2006 10:15 PMComment link
Just like m$ to take a loss in order to try and remove a good product from market. Offer something for free. M# would sell warheads to osama if they thought that could add a new business unit by nocking off an existing business through taking a short term loss. I hope it is a healthy competition where both products succeed, and improve because of it. Like netscape when ie came out...
walkman on July 20, 2006 7:19 AMComment link
