Zune MP3 Vs iPod
The Apple iPod has reigned supreme over the land of digital audio players since the early 2000s. Microsoft, tired of seeing its computing rival reap profits from the iPod and iPod accessories, introduced the Zune MP3 Player in fall of 2006. Similar in function and basic design to the iPod, the Zune differentiates itself by having a larger screen, FM radio tuner, WiFi and the Zune marketplace, which is more diverse and supports more formats than Apple's iTunes.
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Looks
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The Zune and the iPod both sport sleek, sexy designs that appeal to tech-nerds and trendy teenagers alike. The Zune sets itself apart with a glass-covered front and a larger HD screen good for video. The iPod has maintained its distinctive look and amplified its tech appeal with a metallic cover.
Features
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The Zune player features a FM radio receiver for when 16GB to 32GB of digital music aren't enough. It also has WiFi capability for sharing music with other Zune owners. The iPod classic lacks WiFi, but the newly introduced iPod touch has WiFi capability as well as a calendar, games and more.
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Customer Support
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Apple is known for excellent customer support, which in addition to savvy design, is what makes Apple customers so loyal. Microsoft has a mixed customer support record, and many customers look at the Zune with some trepidation after experience with the Windows operating system.
Price
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The Zune was originally introduced for $249 and has consistently maintained a price point approximately $10 less than the iPod classic. The Zune 80 and the iPod Touch are similarly priced around the $240 mark. There are rumors that Apple will soon drop its prices and leave the already-struggling Zune in the dust.
Conclusion
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The newest models of the Zune and the iPod show some convergence and deciding between them comes down to personal preference. The iPod has more non-music options including games and other apps. The Zune maintains the FM receiver and a less restrictive marketplace format regime.
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References
- Photo Credit http://ipods.techfresh.net/wp-content/uploads/2007/07/zune-ipod.jpg
