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View Full Version : Zune 4.0 Software Deep Dive (Part 1)


Jason Dunn
09-17-2009, 02:15 AM
<p><object classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" width="600" height="360" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"><param name="src" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/kLZz5Y7TUWM&amp;ap=&fmt=18" /><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="600" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/kLZz5Y7TUWM&amp;ap=&fmt=18"></embed></object></p><p>This is a "deep dive" video where I take a closer look at the Zune 4.0 desktop software. Perhaps not surprisingly, this was a bit of a rocky experience - I've heard from many people that trying to install the 4.0 software over the 3.x software using the installer from Zune.net results in it hanging at 100% during the "Downloading Components" phase. On the suggestion of our own Darius Wey, I got the 4.0 software via Windows Update, and it all worked smoothly. This is part one of a three part series looking at the Zune 4.0 software. I've discovered many more things since shooting these videos, so expect a written follow-up after all of them have been published. Suffice it to say that while they've made the 4.0 software faster to load - a lot faster - it's plagued by other glitches and has a new type of restriction for international users that's making see see red. More on that later...</p><p><em>Jason Dunn owns and operates <a href="http://www.thoughtsmedia.com/" target="_blank">Thoughts Media Inc.</a>, a company dedicated to creating the best in online communities. He enjoys <a href="http://photos.jasondunn.com/" target="_blank">photography</a>, mobile devices, <a href="http://www.jasondunn.com/" target="_blank">blogging</a>, digital media content creation/editing, and pretty much all technology. He lives in Calgary, Alberta, Canada with his lovely wife, and his sometimes obedient dog. He wonders if the Zune is ever going to exist outside the USA.</em></p><p><img src="http://images.thoughtsmedia.com//ppct/auto/1240336793.usr1.gif" /></p><p><strong>Do you enjoy using new hardware, software and accessories, then sharing your experience with others? Then join us on the <a href="http://www.thoughtsmedia.com/reviewteam.php" target="_blank">Thoughts Media Review Team</a>! We're looking for individuals who find it fun to test new gear and give their honest opinions about the experience. It's a volunteer role with some great perks. Interested? <a href="http://www.thoughtsmedia.com/reviewteam.php" target="_blank">Then click here for more information.</a></strong></p><p><img src="http://images.thoughtsmedia.com//ppct/auto/1240336793.usr1.gif" /></p>

jentse
09-22-2009, 12:18 PM
Hey Jason,

Great review once again! I'm also using the new 4.0 software now, haven't had big problems with it yet.
But since I'm a EU citizen and thus (apparently) not allowed to enjoy the Zune, I am really curious what you mean with the international restrictions that's 'making me see red'? :mad: Is there something I've missed so far but that can screw up my current Zune experience? Will or can they make it impossible for me to use the Zune + software as I'm doing now (are they even allowed)???
I hope not, please let us know what we should be watching out for!
I hope I'll ever be able to use a Zune Pass here in Holland. :(

Thanks in advance, all the best, enjoy your HD!

Jentse