Digital Journal — Microsoft announced the Canadian launch dates and pricing information for its line of MP3 players. Zune, available in 4GB, 8GB and 80GB models, will be available in Canada on June 13 and will cost between $140 and $250.
Launched in the U.S. in November 2006, Microsoft’s Zune is finally arriving in Canada. Starting June 13, Canadian can buy Zune units from retailers but they can get a glimpse into Microsoft’s debut MP3 player by visiting zune.ca, which launched today. Visitors to the site can download free software to a PC to begin creating playlists, managing podcasts and burning CDs.
Zune — available in red, black or pink — comes to Canadian shores in three of the four sizes offered to Americans: 4GB ($140), 8GB ($190) and 80GB ($250). Canada isn’t treated to the 30GB model, which costs $200.
So how is Microsoft going to differentiate its product from the always-popular iPod line? Zune owners can share tracks wirelessly with other Zune owners, and the received song can be enjoyed up to three times with no time restrictions. The songs “self-destruct” after three plays, which works as an incentive for the listener to return to the Zune Marketplace to purchase the track.
Craig Tullett, Group Manager of Zune Canada, said in a press release:
Zune is more than just a music player for Canadians, it’s a shared, social experience. We’re excited to offer people an innovative way to discover, share and enjoy their music wherever they go.
Also, when the Zune is connected to a PC, it automatically synchronizes its music and photos (but not videos) with those on a Windows PC over a wireless home network. It sports an FM radio tuner (not available on the iPod) and it features a unique control pad to let users scroll through lists by rubbing the pad’s face. Apple’s click wheel now faces a powerful competitor.
Canada will be the first market outside the U.S. to receive the Zune.
Microsoft has sold 1.2 million Zunes since the media player first launched. By comparison, Apple has sold more than 100 million iPods since it launched the player in 2001.
