Currently, the Zune 80 is only available in black. Last Valentine’s Day Microsoft released a limited Red Zune. There is no schedule for the releases yet, but Cesar Menendez has confirmed that the red Zune will be in retail stores soon.
Microsoft released their fourth quarter earnings Friday. They missed earnings, but gave a good outlook for the next 12 months. What surprised me was that for the first time that I have been tracking the Zune was not mentioned in their earnings. The Zune is tracked with the Xbox360, which was mentioned.
Revenue from the division responsible for the Xbox 360 video game system ballooned 68 percent to $1.58 billion, which Microsoft attributed to robust demand for game consoles.
Overall, the Xbox division did very well, but game consoles were attributed to the success. I don’t want to read into anything, but I can only guess that sales for the Zune were flat or they would have mentioned it as a strength. Hopefully, they will release sales numbers soon because I’m curious how many Zune owners there are out there!
Great news for Microsoft Zune users! Audible.com has unofficially announced it is bringing its library of audio books to Zune. Here is the e-mail Wired received:
I understand that you have contacted us today in regards to whether or not the Microsoft Zune is compatible with our service. We have great news! After much anticipation, Audible and Microsoft have completed negotiations on making the Zune AudibleReady! While we do not have an exact date as to when the device will be officially AudibleReady, we expect to make the Zune compatible before years end. Our Device Center on our website will be updated upon the Zune becoming compatible, so please be sure to check there periodically.
I wonder why this is “unofficial” and Microsoft has not released a press release. Personally, I love the idea and would be a buyer of Audible.com audio books.
The pairs of sneakers will be sold along with a customized 8GB black Zune digital media player, featuring etched AI graphics, and loaded with special AI content — including his Reebok commercials, playlists and interview footage of other Reebok athletes talking about the first time they played against AI in the league. According to a press release for the company, the shoes are very limited — only 60 pairs are available.
The Answer XI Zune collection will be released in June 2008 and be sold only at select boutique shops in five key markets — Complex/Training Day Store (NYC), Major Commonwealth (DC), Commonwealth (VA), Wish (ATL) and The 400 (Denver).
