As with previous versions of the Zune Software, in 4.0 Microsoft limits and hides the  Zune Marketplace from being viewed by those outside of the USA. This is a precautionary measure to ensure the maximum level of Zune goodness is enjoyed by those it was intended for.

A photo of one of the pamphlets handed out at Best Buy’s Zune HD showings reveal that HD movies are indeed coming to the Zune HD and the Zune Marketplace. The Zune Marketplace currently serves TV Shows, Video Podcasts and Music Videos and it looks as though HD Movies will be added to this with the release of Zune Software 4.0.

A few days ago Microsoft added a strange update for Windows Vista. Update KB972036 which is available via Windows Update is called “August 2009 Update for Windows Vista”. The update description shown when downloading reads: Install this update to resolve issues with non-compatible applications for Windows Vista. The relevant Knowledge Base article states that this [...]

The Zune HD is now available for pre-order in selected stores, prices and specs have been confirmed and the zune.net Zune HD page updated. The device prices are the same as previous rumours, at $219.99 for Zune HD 16gb and $289.99 for Zune HD 32gb and are now available to pre-order at Amazon.com, Best Buy, Wal-Mart and the Microsoft store.

Two more Zune HD hands-on with Ben Patterson from Yahoo Tech and Peter Ha from Crunchgear featuring a great video, the Zune HD dissected by the FCC (photos), CNET hands-on with Zune HD’s internet browser and Amazon releasing price (and colour) information.

A new Zune photo shoot reveals that Microsoft will be delivering its highly anticipated player in 2 flavors – Black 16gb and Silver 32gb (chrome). ZuneHD maintains it’s distinguishable hot looks in both colors and I’m very sure our very own Aden Fraser will be pre-ordering his very own black ZuneHD as soon as possible. [...]

Do you enjoy all the arguments that break out over Apple vs Microsoft? Well stick around because things are about to heat up. Microsoft recently confirmed the CNET report about them opening one of their first two stores at Mission Viejo mall in southern Orange County. Whats so special about that you say? Well if [...]

With an iTunes based subscription service no where in sight and no iTunes streaming service either, Zune still has one up on Apple in this market and its the one thing that really rattles the fanboys. However with the recent Spotify app announcement for the iPhone things sound killler – except they aren’t, here is why.

Microsoft recently responded to Apple’s request by altering their Laptop Hunter TV Commercials to accommodate Apple’s recent pricing change. Microsoft’s focus however has not changed “which is to showcase the value and choice of the PC”.

The Zune HD is already being listed with information at BestBuy. Now this is nothing special – no news on pricing or any additional features, its just a new marketing image and the same information that is available on Zune.net. However, it does make me wonder whether this will actually help Microsoft increase the Zune [...]