Zune HD Announced, But Will it Change the Game?

Kris Erickson • May 27, 2009 • Comments (0)

Earlier this week we reported that Microsoft was working on a handheld entertainment device with gaming functionality, possible called the ZuneX. Where there is smoke around industry rumors, there is almost inevitably fire, and this one turned out no differently. Microsoft today confirmed that it will release a Zune HD device later this year that integrates the Zune marketplace and Xbox Live online services. Based on the Zune HD specs that we have already seen, the portable multimedia player will compete directly with Sony's PSP and Apple's iPhone. The Zune HD goes one step further by providing a built-in HD radio receiver, OLED touch screen, and HDMI out to show movies on the big screen at 720p resolution.

What's more, Microsoft is hinting that there could be some gaming functionality associated with the device as well. The company promises that at E3, "attendees will see first-hand how Zune integrates into Xbox LIVE creating a game-changing entertainment experience." What this means is still unconfirmed, but we believe it could signal several possibilities: Zune-purchased music available as custom soundtracks in-game? Ability to play minigames on the handheld while away from home? Without any visible gaming buttons, we are skeptical that this new Zune will play games as previously thought. However, nothing is outside of the realm of possibility, including a peripheral game attachment, for example.