Microsoft Rolls Out New Zune Player with HD Radio

RADIO ONLINE | , , | :am CT

Zune HD, the next-generation Microsoft portable media player with an integrated HD Radio receiver, is now available in stores nationwide. The device boasts a multi-touch screen, an NVIDIA Tegra HD processor and HD Radio technology. It's the second portable HD Radio-enabled device that's hit the market. The first came from Best Buy's in-house Insignia brand in July.

"With today's announcement, the Zune business is growing into a comprehensive entertainment service that's no longer tied to any one screen or device," said Microsoft VP Enrique Rodriguez. "Zune lets consumers connect to their music, TV shows and movie content and enjoy it on the three screens they use every day."

The Zune HD marks a significant step forward for portable media players, combining HD Radio capabilities with software advancements such as the new Quickplay menu, a well-featured web browser, and music and video playback features. Quickplay, a new signature menu for Zune, puts customers one touch away from their favorite content, such as favorites, last played items and media most recently added, eliminating the need to dig through menus to find the music, videos, pictures or podcasts they want.