While all eyes are eager to see Microsoft s answer to iPod Touch - Zune HD, news comes that current generation Zune models would be discontinued. Paul Thurott of WinSuperSite reported that Microsoft s Zune Team has discontinued Zune 4GB, 8GB, 16GB, 80GB and 120GB models. Zune HD is will be available in stores from Sept. 15.
Thurott stated that the classic Zune devices would be available only till their supplies last. Hence, the current generation Zune models would be discontinued and the focus would entirely be on Zune HD. Microsoft spokesperson told Ars Technica, Additional flash Zune devices (Zune 4GB, 8GB and 16GB) and hard drive devices (80GB and 120GB) will continue to be available at retail until sold out, though we will not continue to manufacture those devices . This means if at all anyone is interested in buying either flash memory based or hard drive-like Zune, those models are available in stores as well as in Microsoft Online Store.
Microsoft is presumably taking this early step to create more room for the development of Zune HD. Well, it would be unfair if Microsoft focuses entirely on Zune HD as not everyone would like to buy touchscreen media player. Probably that s why Apple still continues to sell 120GB iPod classic models.
Apparently, the 120GB Zune model is priced at $229 and is a bit costlier than the Zune HD 16GB model which is priced at $219. We know it s not sensible to compare a hard drive based portable music player with flash memory based touchscreen mode, but we re just saying! It might be Microsoft s way to cut costs since Zune wasn t much of a hit.
If Zune HD does wonders for Microsoft, it s obvious that the company would be looking forward to self-built touchscreen-Windows phone with Zune HD s interface and running Windows Mobile 7 or later. Who knows what s in store for Zune loyalists from Microsoft.
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