Zune 80, 120

Infobox Information appliance
name = Zune 80, 120


manufacturer = Microsoft
type = Portable media player
releasedate = November 13, 2007cite web|url=http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/press/2007/nov07/11-12ZuneCustomizationPR.mspx|title=Microsoft Unveils Device Customization via New Zune Originals Store, New Zune Players Available Tomorrow|publisher=Microsoft]
connectivity = Wi-Fi, USB
lifespan = ^{Zune 80:}

^{Zune 120:}
media =
os = Microsoft Windows
input = Zune Pad
power =
storage = 80 GB, 120GB hard disk
memory =
service = Zune Marketplace
dimensions = 4.26 x 2.41 x 0.51 in. (108.2 x 61.1 x 12.9 mm)
weight = 4.5 oz.
touchpad = squircle-shaped Zune Pad
predecessor = Zune 30
successor =
related = Zune 4, Zune 8 Microsoft, Xbox 360The Zune 80 and Zune 120 are portable media players developed by Microsoft in its Zune series of media players. The Zune 80 was announced on October 2, 2007 and was released on November 13, 2007. It, along with the Zune 4 and 8, is part of the second generation of Zune devices. It features music, video, and podcast support, and comes with Wi-Fi and FM Radio. The Zune 120, part of the third generation of Zune devices, was released September 16, 2008. All Zune players run the Zune 3.0 firmware.

Overview

Aiming to improve on the design of the original Zune, the Zune 80 is 3.6 millimeters thinner and 31 grams lighter. It also has a slightly larger screen (3.2 inches instead of 3) and higher battery life (up to 30 hours for music, versus up to 14). The D-pad of the original has been replaced by the patented Zune Pad, which supplements 5-way clicking with touch sensitivity similar to the iPod Click Wheel and only responding to human touch. The Zune 80 shipped with a newer firmware version than the original Zune shipped with, but a firmware update for the original restored parity. The Wi-Fi antenna can be used for buying music on the device, playing others in games via Wi-Fi, wireless synchronization and to share photos, podcasts, and music with other Zunes, although shared songs may only be played three times on the receiving Zune.

Reception

The Zune 80 has been reviewed more positively than the Zune 30 and on par with the iPod classic, its primary competitor. CNet's review said, "The Zune has blossomed from an ugly duckling into a worthy iPod alternative." [ [http://reviews.cnet.com/zune/?tag=prod.txt.3 CNet Review] ] Wired Magazine's head-to-head review said the Zune 80 edged out the iPod classic due to its screen, Wi-Fi, radio, and navigation. [ [http://www.wired.com/gadgets/portablemusic/news/2007/12/megaplayer_smackdown Wired Review] ] However, some reviews have also been critical of the Marketplace, which lacked movies (TV shows are included now, no movies though), and the lack of Mac support.

Availability

Most stores did not stock the player during its launch as they were delayed for 6 weeks. However, there were limited numbers of Zune 80s in some stores like Circuit City and Wal-Mart, and most were sold out as soon as they were available. [cite web| url=http://www.zunescene.com/zune-80-shortage/ | title=Zune 80 Six Weeks Behind Production Schedule | publisher=Zune Scene | accessdate=2007-11-16] As of June 13th 2008 the Zune is available in Canada at most major retailers including The Source, Best Buy, and Future Shop.

The 80 is currently available in Black and Red, and the 120 is in an all-black version, matte black on the back and glossy black on the front.

Durability

The Zune 80 has a durable scratch resistant glass LCD screen, and the back can withstand fine scratches if dropped on the floor. The premium in-ear earphones are highly durable and have a magnetic back so they can stay together instead of coiling around each other, preventing damage to the wire. [http://reviews.cnet.com/headphones/microsoft-zune-premium-earphones/4505-7877_7-32106083.html]

ee also

* Comparison of portable media players
* Comparison of Online music stores
*
* Comparison of Wi-Fi handhelds

External links

* [http://www.zune.net/en-us/products/zune80gb/specs.htm Tech specs]
* [http://www.zune.net/en-us/products/zune80gb/preloadedcontent.htm Pre-loaded content]

References