Possible Zune Prototype?

[Aaron Roma]

<div class='os_post_top_link'><a href='http://www.newlaunches.com/archives/toshiba_gigabeat_p20k_and_p10k.php' target='_blank'>http://www.newlaunches.com/archives/toshiba_gigabeat_p20k_and_p10k.php</a><br /><br /></div><p><em>&quot;Now that Toshiba's just released the P20K and P10K flash-based players (which also look a bit like the Nano), we have to wonder whether this will be the hardware the flash-based Zune will use.&quot;</em> </p><p><img src="http://images.thoughtsmedia.com/zt/2006/gizmodo_toshiba_gbp20k_111406.bmp" alt="" /></p><p>Here we are not even a day into launch, and there's already speculation on the next Zune models. We've known all along that the Zune isn't a single player, but an entire product line; we have just seen the beginning. Since it's common knowledge that Toshiba manufactured the first generation Zune, the folks over at Gizmodo wonder if this new release from Toshiba could be any indication of the future Zune competitor to the iPod Nano. As others have pointed out, I think Microsoft's long term plans call for more in-house designs for the Zune, as opposed to updating and re-branding another manufacture's design. Using Toshiba design for the first gen was most likely to facilitate a rush to hit the market. Now that Zune has hit the shelves for the holidays, the Zune team has a little more time to concentrate on future designs. While we are at it, what would you like to see in future Zune models, hardware wise?</p><p> </p>

[mrozema]

Since they have Wifi, why not Bluetooth?
Your BT-enabled phone could be ringing and send an alert to your Zune to inform you that someone is calling.

[Jason Dunn]

Since they have Wifi, why not Bluetooth?

Yeah, I wondered about that as well: the Zune could have easily bundled Bluetooth and made another first against the iPod...

[jdmountford]

My ideal music player would be; not too big (very pocketable), have an innovative design (everyone copying iPods is not innovative), have a good FM tuner, FM transmitter (wireless play to car or home stereo), an Micro SD Slot (for quick swapping files between devices like my phone, camera or music player), Bluetooth (for audio playback or syncing), a good amount of storage and audio out.

In other words my ideal device would be a cross between The LG Chocolate and the Sandisk e200 series, only with a better OS and more responsive buttons.<O:p

Demanding Huh?<O:p</O:p

[fem.]

:o I guess I'm too easy to please. Been holding out for a good hdd player that's non-apple so I really have nothing to compare it to.

The size feels tiny for me having never had an ipod, and I wouldn't want to sacrifice storage. But hey if I'm really happy with this zune I might upgrade to a 2nd or 3rd gen

[tiwahu]

Well, I think the manual for the Zone Dock (Dock.pdf) might be a pretty good validation of future form factor.


- The Zune Dock’s removable insert can accommodate future Zune models. To change inserts, press the release button and lift the insert out.

– The insert also holds the Zune Wireless Remote for Zune Dock (sold separately).
http://www.zune.net/en-us/support/resources/downloadmanuals.htm