What is the Zune HD?

The Microsoft Zune HD is the latest released in the Zune family of MP3 line. It is a portable media player released in September 2009. It comes in 16 GB and 32 GB models and offers HD video playback capacity. The Zune is capable of doing this by utilizing the Tegra chip technology that lets it project 720p video playback via a HDTV. You can do this by purchasing the HDMI Zune dock, hooking it up to your television and then playing video through the device to the TV. If not hooked up to a television, the content is scaled to 480 x 272 on the Zune HD view screen.

Besides the HD playback via the device and TV, the Microsoft Zune utilizes a 3.3 OLED touch screen. It displays videos in a 16:9 ratio. It weighs approximately 2.6 ounces and fits securely when held in the hand. It offers Wi-Fi connections via the standard 802.11 protocol and utilizes the Zune Marketplace on the go for users to purchased, download and preview music and video while connected to the Internet. You can use the Internet via Internet Explorer Mobile along with playing games on the device. The Zune can also be managed through Windows Media Player when connected via USB to a computer.

The Zune HD was released in September 2009 in North America. It was preview for consumers at the 2009 E3 event by Microsoft during a press conference. Zune Video – merging the Zune Marketplace and Xbox Live – will allow users to download and playback content via the Zune and Xbox. All major retailers carry the Zune HD in the 16 GB and 32 GB models and are available via Microsoft's web site and other online retailers, too. The Zune HD is a perfect upgrade for those looking to do more with video rather than audio on their MP3 player.