Zune Thoughts: Zune Catching Up?

"Microsoft recently released the Zune MP3 player to compete with Apple’s iPod. The Zune, much like the iPod, is an MP3 player capable of playing music, viewing photos and watching videos. They are comparable units, boasting 30GB hard drives for $249.99... There are other cool features built into the player that the iPod doesn’t have, says Appleton Best Buy employee Zach Michael. “It has a larger viewing screen that tilts sideways, and it has WiFi connection from Zune to Zune,” he said. “It also has a built-in radio like most do now, but iPod owners have to purchase a $50 accessory.” Even with all the cool features the Zune possesses, it still hasn’t reached iPod sales yet, according to Michael. “The iPod is still selling better, but the Zune is catching on,” he said. But it’s so new to the market it’s taking some time to reach the public. Everyone is still on the iPod fad.” When asked about what he recommends consumers buy, Michael says he doesn’t recommend either product. “I try to determine which unit is better based on individuals needs, which player suits them,” he said. He also mentioned that company preference comes into the equation of what player should be purchased. “Some people don’t like Apple, and some don’t like Microsoft,” he said."

Well, ain't that the truth? It's nice to see that salespeople now know what the Zune is, rather than giving me that blank stare when I ask if they have any Zune assecories. This guy even seems to know its features, which is also encouraging. As for not recommending it, well, I'm not sure I'd even recommend it to people at this point, so I can't blame him. Unless you've got all your ID3 tags in a row, or are planning on buying all your music, you'll find finessing your current collection a real pain just to get the Zune to view it properly. And converting videos to play on the Zune is not something someone new to the subject would find fun. What about you? Do you find yourself recommending the Zune, or are you holding off for now?