A few days ago, we teamed up with LiveSide.net's Ryan Rea to let the world know what we know about the ZuneHD from Microsoft insiders. As many blogs have reported, it seems as if this device is a dream device for fan-boys. I personally just think that Microsoft is finally on the right track with the Zune hardware, needless to mention the fact that the Zune software updates are going to complete this international release.
A certain spec we reported a few days ago was that there would be a 120GB model of the ZuneHD when it comes to market later this fall. A few hours after we announced the specs, which were all confirmed by more than 4 Microsoft employees, someone backtracked and told us that there will NOT be a 120GB model. So at this point I'm confused why the folks up in Redmond would retract what they've told us here at Neowin. Kinda reminds me of the Osborne Effect.
When the Zune launched back in 2006, it debuted with a 30GB hard drive. When the second generation rolled out we were introduced to 4GB, 8GB, 16GB, 80GB, and 120GB. I don't know about you but when I'm looking to get the predecessor of any electronic device I tend to be consistent. Now that we've got confirmation that the ZuneHD will have all kinds of awesome hardware, the size of the hard drive (Which is flash based) is going to need to be a decent size in order to fit all of my 720p HD movies and podcasts (On top of my music).
I'm sorry Microsoft, but 8GB, 16GB, and 32GB models just aren't going to cut it. Especially if you're going to be competitive with Apple's iPod Touch. Unless of course, you're just trying to catch up lost market share? You guys have rocked the Zune platform this far, don't let the Zune HD perish because there isn't a decent size device! Don't forget that you're going international, and the European folks already love the Zune and have waited long enough for the launch.
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