Microsoft makes Friends with Toshiba

Word on the street is that Toshiba alerted the Federal Communications Commission of its plan to manufacture Apple's next rival: The Microsoft Zune. Toshiba will team up with the software giant to create the ultimate digital music player. Features include: 30GB of hard drive, a stunning 3 inch TFT LCD screen, FM tuner, wireless 802.11 blg, USB 2.0 support and more. That's right... there's a clue guys. Its now official that Zune will allow wireless downloads directly from the device (this may just dominate the iPod). Toshiba will allow the Zune to be a shared device, allowing users to stream music and share content with friends and strangers (social networking; but only up to four other devices allowed). Engineers at Toshiba Labs stated that ounce you are under a wireless setting, you are allowed to send and receive promotional copies of songs, albums and even playlists from other Pyxis users. This is a good way for new artists to become known by offering some of their songs to be shared as promotional tracks... and also a smart technique for Microsoft to gain ad dollars. I think the Zune will be a hit; its on my Christmas list :) no word is out on when it will be released though; Microsoft marketers are saying this holiday season though. Apple has yet to respond to Zune's increasing buzz... mainly here on StreetBlabber, but i'll keep you all posted on September 12, a big day for Apple... its their annual "Apple Expo" and rumor has it that Steve Jobs is set to release some surprising news, so keep posted: only here is where will you witness the exclusive recap. What do you think of the Zune, will it be a hit? Will it stand a chance? How will it affect Microsoft and Apple as a brand? And will you possibly purchase the Zune in time for the holiday's? BLAB ON...leave a comment >