For quite a long time, we've wondered just why Microsoft has not promoted the Zune in a serious manner on other markets apart from the US, but it seems that the company from Redmond has finally came to its senses and announced the further international expansion of Zune digital entertainment service, a move prompted by the imminent launch of the Windows Phone 7 operating system for smartphones.
And that's because, according to Microsoft, the Zune software has been upgraded with new features and functionality and will serve as the Windows Phone 7 synchronization client.
The new software (version 4.7) will be available to download for free in more than 20 countries, including the U.K., France, Italy, Germany and Spain, and will be able to manage one's collection of movies, music, podcasts and pictures, while also enabling instant streaming of high-definition movies, allowing users to watch some Zune Marketplace movies in HD, with no download time, directly on a Windows PC.
Video purchases will be accessible through Xbox LIVE and Windows-based PCs, and can also be added to a Windows Phone.
Unfortunately, not all countries will get to enjoy a similar Zune experience.
So, the Zune Pass monthly music subscription service will be available for 9.99 euros /8.99 pounds per month in U.K., France, Italy and Spain, the same countries, plus Germany, also getting a music purchase option.
Things get a bit better in the case of video purchase options, to be available in U.K., France, Germany, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, while movie rental will be available in UK., France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Austria, Belgium, Ireland, Netherlands, Switzerland, Mexico, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.
"The integration between Zune, Windows Phone 7 and Xbox LIVE is an exciting expansion in our entertainment offerings," said Craig Eisler, corporate vice president, Interactive Entertainment Business Group at Microsoft.
"Zune enables users to access the entertainment they want, wherever they want it — and now, more people than ever will be able to enjoy the freedom and flexibility that the Zune service offers," Mr. Eisler concluded.
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