09-06-2007, 05:46 AM
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Contributing Editor Emeritus
Join Date: Sep 2006
Posts: 1,053
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Microsoft Grades Itself B-
“A Microsoft executive has gone on record about several topics, mainly the health of the Zune media player. Mindy Mount, the corporate vice president and CFO of Microsoft’s entertainment and device division, says that she grades the Zune a "B-" in its current state. She argues that the player is doing well, sales wise, for “a product out in less than a year and a half," but that the company is still developing the brand and trying to expand its identity. Apple's iPod is described as a motivational competitor, forcing the Zune team to evolve. No specific successors have been mentioned.”
I wonder what this executive would have said if she’d waited a day for the new iPod releases? I suppose for last generation the Zune was, ultimately, a B-. But after what transpired with Apple’s announcements? Well what is currently out is, at best, a C. If the iPod is a motivational competitor then Microsoft should have a lot of motivation now. And don’t get me wrong; I love my Zune! But if this is what Microsoft executives think of their own product then that’s a bad thing.
But there is a silver lining to this. If a Microsoft executive recognizes that the Zune has shortcomings then hopefully they will actually start to work on fixing them.
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09-06-2007, 08:45 PM
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Contributing Editor
Join Date: Dec 2006
Posts: 519
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Companies always insult their former offerings in an attempt to get people to upgrade or become first-time purchasers if the last offering was not what the customer wanted. The only difference is that Apple insults its products and then immediately follows up with their new and improved version, whereas Microsoft waits a bit.
Yet another thing Microsoft has to learn in order to be competitive. I for one actually appreciate knowing when not to buy a product--Apple, with few exceptions (the $100 iPhone rebate included) does not deign us lowly customers the right to know what's in store until their good and ready to. Both approaches have their advantages, but I think ultimately, the best model for the consumer is to keep them abreast of the changes so they can plan accordingly.
It's almost unfortunate that Microsoft feels it necessary to copy Apple in this regard, or at least attempt to. As much as I hate to say it, I miss the old Microsoft.
(Oh, and my Club Live Zune just came in today, I'm very happy!)
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