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{{short description|Discontinued media management software by Microsoft}}
{{Infobox software
{{Infobox software
| screenshot = Zunesw.jpg
⚫
|developer= [[Microsoft]]
| logo = Zune icon without wordmark.svg
⚫
|operating system= [[Windows XP|Windows XP SP3]]andlater<ref name= "win8" />
| caption = Local music library on Zune, running in Windows 7
|released =
⚫
|developer = [[Microsoft]]
⚫
|genre= [[Utility software]]
⚫
|operating system = [[Windows XP|Windows XP SP3]]<br/>[[WindowsVista|WindowsVista SP2]]<br/>[[Windows 7]]<br/>[[Windows 8]]/[[Windows 8.1|8.1]]<ref name= "win8" />
⚫
|license= [[Proprietary software]]
| replaces = [[Windows Mobile Device Center]]
|website = <!--None-->
| replaced_by = [[Groove Music]]<br>[[Microsoft Movies & TV]]
| released = November 14, 2006
| latest release version = 4.08.2345
| latest release date = August 22, 2011
| discontinued = yes
⚫
|genre = [[Utility software]]
⚫
|license = [[Proprietary software]]
| website = [https://www.windowsphone.com/en-US/How-to/wp7/zune-software Zune software for your PC]
}}
}}


'''Zune''' istheworstmediamanagementappfor [[Microsoft Windows]]<ref name= "win8" >{{cite web|url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-8-tip-syncing-windows-phone-or-zune-device|title=Windows 8 Tip: Syncing a Windows Phone or Zune Device|first=Paul|last=Thurrott|authorlink=Paul Thurrott|work=SuperSite for Windows|publisher=[[Penton (company)|Penton]]|date=June 11, 2012|accessdate=March 17, 2013}}</ref> that functions as a full media playerapplication with alibrary,an interface to the Zune Marketplace, and as amedia streaming server.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://zune.net/en-us/support/usersguide/sharing/mediasharingfaq.htm|title=Media Sharing FAQ|accessdate=November 21, 2008|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|work=[[Zune]]|date=|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080412115556/http://zune.net.:80//en-us/support/usersguide/sharing/mediasharingfaq.htm|dead-url=yes|archivedate=April 12, 2008}}</ref> The software is used to sync with all devices with Zune functionality including the [[Zune 4, 8, 16]], [[Zune 30|30]], [[Zune 80, 120|80, 120]], [[Zune HD]], [[Windows Phone 7]], and [[Microsoft Kin]]. Zune devices work exclusively with the Zune software, which applies many design principles of Microsoft's [[Metro (design language)|Metro design language]].
'''Zune''' isadiscontinuedsoftwareprogramthat was developed by [[Microsoft]]for [[MicrosoftWindows|Windows]]<ref name= "win8" >{{cite web|url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-8-tip-syncing-windows-phone-or-zune-device|title=Windows 8 Tip: Syncing a Windows Phone or Zune Device|first=Paul|last=Thurrott|author-link=Paul Thurrott|work=SuperSite for Windows|publisher=[[Penton (company)|Penton]]|date=June 11, 2012|access-date=March 17, 2013}}</ref> that functions as a full[[media player]],library, media streaming server,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://zune.net/en-us/support/usersguide/sharing/mediasharingfaq.htm|title=Media Sharing FAQ|access-date=November 21, 2008|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|work=[[Zune]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080412115556/http://zune.net.:80//en-us/support/usersguide/sharing/mediasharingfaq.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=April 12, 2008}}</ref>mobile device management, and interface for the discontinued Zune Marketplace.The software is used to sync with all devices with[[Zune]]functionality including the [[Zune 4, 8, 16]], [[Zune 30|30]], [[Zune 80, 120|80, 120]], [[Zune HD]], [[Windows Phone 7]], and [[Microsoft Kin]]. Zune devices work exclusively with the Zune software, which applies many design principles of Microsoft's [[Metro (design language)|Metro design language]].


Following the discontinuation of Zune hardware in 2011,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2011-03-15 |title=Microsoft Zune Discontinued Amidst Falling Demand |url=https://www.hypebot.com/hypebot/2011/03/microsoft-zune-discontinued-amidst-falling-demand.html |access-date=2023-10-18 |website=Hypebot |language=en-US}}</ref> the software program was put into maintenance mode. In October 2012 its replacements products were launched: the new phone companion app is used for syncing with devices running [[Windows Phone 8]] (including [[Windows Phone 8.1|8.1]]) and [[Windows 10 Mobile]],<ref>{{Cite web |last=Byford |first=Sam |date=2012-10-29 |title=Microsoft releases Windows Phone 8 syncing app for Windows 8 and RT |url=https://www.theverge.com/2012/10/29/3569834/windows-phone-8-app-windows-8-rt-available |access-date=2023-10-18 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref> while Xbox Music (later known as [[Groove Music]]) and [[Microsoft Movies & TV]] were launched to fill Zune's role as a media player and streamer.<ref>{{cite web |last=Gilbert |first=Ben |date=October 15, 2012 |title=With the launch of Xbox Music, Zune is truly no more |url=https://www.engadget.com/2012/10/15/death-of-zune-brand/ |work=[[Engadget]] |publisher=[[AOL]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite magazine |last=Peckham |first=Matt |date=2012-10-16 |title=Can Microsoft's New Xbox Music Service Do What Zune Couldn't? |language=en-US |magazine=Time |url=https://techland.time.com/2012/10/16/can-microsofts-new-xbox-music-service-do-what-zune-couldnt/ |access-date=2023-10-18 |issn=0040-781X}}</ref> Zune online services were completely shut down on November 15, 2015.<ref name= "ZuneShutdown" >{{cite web|title=Zune retirement FAQ|url=https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/kb/3096659|date=October 20, 2015|work=Support|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151122042238/https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/kb/3096659|archive-date=November 22, 2015}}</ref>
The software was discontinued on October 16, 2012{{citation needed|date=October 2015}} and replaced with the [[Windows Phone App]] (available both as desktop app and [[Windows Store app]] versions) and subsequently the "Phone Companion" App built into [[Windows 10]] for PC, which is used for syncing with devices running [[Windows Phone 8]] (including [[Windows Phone 8.1|8.1]]) and [[Windows 10 Mobile]], respectively. The software's role as a music and video player and streaming service has been superseded by [[Groove Music]] and [[Xbox Video]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2012/10/15/death-of-zune-brand/|title=With the launch of Xbox Music, Zune is truly no more|date=October 15, 2012|first=Ben|last=Gilbert|work=[[Engadget]]|publisher=[[AOL]]}}</ref>

Zune online services were completely shut down on November 15, 2015,<ref name=ZuneShutdown>{{cite web|title=Zune retirement FAQ|url=https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/kb/3096659|date=October 20, 2015|work=Support|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|deadurl=yes|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20151122042238/https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/kb/3096659|archivedate=November 22, 2015}}</ref> but the Zune software is still available for download from the Windows Phone website for use with Windows Phone 7 and Zune devices, which do not work with the newer apps designed for Windows Phone 8/8.1/Windows 10 Mobile.<ref name=ZuneDownloadWP7>{{cite web|title=Zune software for your PC|url=https://www.windowsphone.com/en-CA/How-to/wp7/zune-software|website=[[Windows Phone]]|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|accessdate=16 November 2015|deadurl=yes|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120926055347/https://www.windowsphone.com/en-CA/How-to/wp7/zune-software|archivedate=September 26, 2012}}</ref>


==Content==
==Content==
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| Audio || [[MP3]], [[Advanced Audio Coding|AAC]] (Low complexity),.mp4,.m4b,.mov, [[Windows Media Audio|WMA]] (standard, pro, and lossless)
| Audio || [[MP3]], [[Advanced Audio Coding|AAC]] (Low complexity),.mp4,.m4b,.mov, [[Windows Media Audio|WMA]] (standard, pro, and lossless)
|-
|-
| Video || [[MPEG4]] (in.mp4,.m4v and.mov containers), [[H.264]] (in.mp4,.m4v and.mov containers), [[WMV]], [[Advanced Systems Format|ASF]], [[Audio Video Interleave|AVI]] (in.avi container)
| Video || [[MPEG4]] (in.mp4,.m4v and.mov containers), [[H.264]] (in.mp4,.m4v and.mov containers), [[Windows Media Video|WMV]], [[Advanced Systems Format|ASF]], [[Audio Video Interleave|AVI]] (in.avi container)
|-
|-
| Images || [[JPEG]]
| Images || [[JPEG]]
Line 34: Line 41:


===History===
===History===
{{mainarticle|Zune Software version history}}
{{main|Zune Software version history}}
The1.0 versions of the Zune software were a modified version of [[Windows Media Player]] 11 while versions since 2.0 are built independently with additional [[DirectShow]] decoders for [[Advanced Audio Coding|AAC]], [[MPEG-4]] and [[H.264]]. The current version of the software is 4.08.2345, released on August 22, 2011. Several versions of the software have been released. As of October 16, 2012 Zune became [[Xbox Music]].
The 0.1versions of the Zune software were a modified version of [[Windows Media Player]] 11 while versions since 2.0 are built independently with additional [[DirectShow]] decoders for [[Advanced Audio Coding|AAC]], [[MPEG-4]] and [[H.264]]. The current version of the software is 4.08.2345, released on August 22, 2011. Several versions of the software have been released. As of October 16, 2012 Zune became [[Xbox Music]].


==Zune Marketplace==
==Zune Marketplace==
'''Zune Marketplace''' was an online store that offered music, podcasts, TV shows, movies, music videos, and mobile applications. Content could be viewed or purchased on Windows PCs with the [[Zune]] software installed, Zune devices, the [[Xbox 360]], [[Windows Phone]] phones, or the [[Microsoft Kin]] phones.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://zune.net//en-us/products/learningcenter/zunemarketplace |title=Zune Marketplace |work=[[Zune]]|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|accessdate=December 17, 2010 |deadurl=yes|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080412115556/http://zune.net.:80//en-us/products/learningcenter/zunemarketplace |archivedate=April 12, 2008 }}</ref> Zune Music Marketplace has since been superseded by [[Xbox Music]].
'''Zune Marketplace''' was an online store that offered music, podcasts, TV shows, movies, music videos, and mobile applications. Content could be viewed or purchased on Windows PCs with the [[Zune]] software installed, Zune devices, the [[Xbox 360]], [[Windows Phone]] phones, or the [[Microsoft Kin]] phones.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://zune.net//en-us/products/learningcenter/zunemarketplace |title=Zune Marketplace |work=[[Zune]]|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|access-date=December 17, 2010 |url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080412115556/http://zune.net.:80//en-us/products/learningcenter/zunemarketplace |archive-date=April 12, 2008 }}</ref> Zune Music Marketplace has since been superseded by [[Xbox Music]].


===Music===
===Music===
Initially offering 2 million songs, the Zune Marketplace had grown to offer 14 million songs,<ref name= "ReferenceA" >{{cite web|url=http://windowsteamblog.com/windows_phone/b/windowsphone/archive/2011/09/29/zune-expands-to-canada-drops-zune-pass-price-in-us.aspx |title=Zune expands to Canada, drops Zune Pass price in US|date=September 29, 2011|first=Michael|last=Stroh|work=The Windows Blog|publisher=[[Microsoft]] |accessdate=September 19, 2012 |deadurl=yes|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120202221006/http://windowsteamblog.com/windows_phone/b/windowsphone/archive/2011/09/29/zune-expands-to-canada-drops-zune-pass-price-in-us.aspx |archivedate=February 2, 2012 }}</ref> all of which were available in MP3 format at up to320kbit/s and were [[Digital rights management|DRM]]-free. Music on Zune Marketplace was offered by the [[World music market|big four music groups]] ([[EMI]], [[Warner Music Group]], [[Sony BMG]] and [[Universal Music Group]]), as well as smaller music labels.<ref name= "ReferenceA" />
Initially offering 2 million songs, the Zune Marketplace had grown to offer 14 million songs,<ref name= "ReferenceA" >{{cite web|url=http://windowsteamblog.com/windows_phone/b/windowsphone/archive/2011/09/29/zune-expands-to-canada-drops-zune-pass-price-in-us.aspx |title=Zune expands to Canada, drops Zune Pass price in US|date=September 29, 2011|first=Michael|last=Stroh|work=The Windows Blog|publisher=[[Microsoft]] |access-date=September 19, 2012 |url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120202221006/http://windowsteamblog.com/windows_phone/b/windowsphone/archive/2011/09/29/zune-expands-to-canada-drops-zune-pass-price-in-us.aspx |archive-date=February 2, 2012 }}</ref> all of which were available in MP3 format at up to320&nbsp;kbit/s and were [[Digital rights management|DRM]]-free. Music on Zune Marketplace was offered by the [[World music market|big four music groups]] ([[EMI]], [[Warner Music Group]], [[Sony BMG]] and [[Universal Music Group]]), as well as smaller music labels.<ref name= "ReferenceA" />


The home page of the Zune Marketplace shows featured music as selected by Microsoft, and the most popular music. Users can search, or filter by genres including rock, pop, dance, urban, and others.
The home page of the Zune Marketplace shows featured music as selected by Microsoft, and the most popular music. Users can search, or filter by genres including rock, pop, dance, urban, and others.


Prior to ZuneMarketplace’smusic becoming DRM-free, songs were protected by Windows Media DRM however the Zune Software only allowed WMDRM content from the Zune Marketplace to be transferred to Zune devices. Zune Marketplace DRM content could be played by other WMDRM compatible applications and devices.
Prior to ZuneMarketplace'smusic becoming DRM-free, songs were protected by Windows Media DRM however the Zune Software only allowed WMDRM content from the Zune Marketplace to be transferred to Zune devices. Zune Marketplace DRM content could be played by other WMDRM compatible applications and devices.


===Videos===
===Videos===
Zune Marketplace offers television shows from the following companies: [[A&E Network|A&E]], [[Anime]], [[Bravo (US TV channel)|Bravo]], [[Cartoon Network]], [[CBS]], [[Discovery Communications]], [[E!]], [[Fox Broadcasting Company|Fox]], [[G4 (U.S. TV channel)|G4]], [[GamerTV]], [[History (U.S. TV channel)|History Channel]], [[Marvel Entertainment, Inc.|Marvel]], [[MLB]], [[NBC]], [[Paley Center]], [[Public Broadcasting Service|PBS]], [[Spike (TV channel)|Spike]], [[Starz (TV network)|Starz]], [[SyFy]], [[Total Nonstop Action Wrestling|TNA]], [[USA Network]], and [[Viacom]].
Zune Marketplace offers television shows from the following companies: [[A&E Network|A&E]], [[Anime]], [[Bravo (US TV channel)|Bravo]], [[Cartoon Network]], [[CBS]], [[Discovery Communications]], [[E!]], [[Fox Broadcasting Company|Fox]], [[20th Century Fox Television]], [[G4 (U.S. TV channel)|G4]], [[GamerTV]], [[History (U.S. TV channel)|History Channel]], [[Marvel Entertainment, Inc.|Marvel]], [[MLB]], [[NBC]], [[Universal Media Studios]], [[Paley Center]], [[Public Broadcasting Service|PBS]], [[Spike (TV channel)|Spike]], [[Starz (TV network)|Starz]], [[SyFy]], [[Total Nonstop Action Wrestling|TNA]], [[USA Network]], and [[Viacom (2005–present)|Viacom]].


Movies from [[Paramount Pictures|Paramount]], [[Universal Studios|Universal]], [[WarnerBrothers]], [[20th Century Fox]] and other studios are offered for purchase or time-limited rental. Some movies are available in HD. Selected content purchased via Zune Marketplace on the Xbox 360 additionally offers 5.1 surround sound.<ref>{{cite web |title=More films, faster with Zune |url=http://www.xbox.com/en-GB/news-features/news/More-films-faster-with-Zune.htm|work=[[Xbox]]|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|deadurl=yes|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20090611192245/http://www.xbox.com/en-GB/news-features/news/More-films-faster-with-Zune.htm|archivedate=June 11, 2009}}</ref>
Movies from [[Paramount Pictures|Paramount]], [[Universal Studios|Universal]], [[WarnerBros. Pictures]], [[20th Century Fox]] and other studios are offered for purchase or time-limited rental. Some movies are available in HD. Selected content purchased via Zune Marketplace on the Xbox 360 additionally offers 5.1 surround sound.<ref>{{cite web |title=More films, faster with Zune |url=http://www.xbox.com/en-GB/news-features/news/More-films-faster-with-Zune.htm|work=[[Xbox]]|publisher=[[Microsoft]]|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090611192245/http://www.xbox.com/en-GB/news-features/news/More-films-faster-with-Zune.htm|archive-date=June 11, 2009}}</ref>


Music videos were also offered for purchase. Zune Video Marketplace has been superseded by [[Xbox Video]].
Music videos were also offered for purchase. Zune Video Marketplace has been superseded by [[Xbox Video]].
Line 90: Line 97:


===Zune Music Pass===
===Zune Music Pass===
Zune Music Pass is a music subscription service, which allows subscribers to download an unlimited number of songs for as long as their subscription is active. The songs can be played on up to 3 Windows PCs and on up to 3 other Zune-compatible devices, but cannot be burned to an audio CD. Songs downloaded using Zune Pass are provided in WMA format at192kbit/s and are restricted by DRM. Zune Music Pass subscribers in the United States and other select countries were permitted to keep 10 songs per month even after their subscription ended, however the incentive was ultimately discontinued.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.engadget.com/2006/09/14/Zune-marketplace-to-keep-your-Zune-player-happy/|title=Zune Marketplace To Keep Your Zune Player Happy|date=September 14, 2006|work=[[Engadget]]|publisher=[[AOL]]|first=Cyrus|last=Farivar}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://zune.net/en-US/products/zunepass/default.htm |title=Zune Pass |work=[[Zune]]|publisher=[[Microsoft]] |accessdate=December 17, 2010 |deadurl=yes|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080412115556/http://zune.net.:80//en-US/products/zunepass/default.htm |archivedate=April 12, 2008 }}</ref> On October 3, 2011, the Zune Music Pass price was lowered to $9.99/month, and the 10 song credit was removed.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2011/09/29/microsoft-announces-new-10-zune-music-pass-expands-service-to/|title=Microsoft announces new $10 Zune Music Pass, expands service to Canada|work=[[Engadget]]|publisher=[[AOL]]|date=September 29, 2011|first=Donald|last=Melanson}}</ref> On October 15, 2012, Microsoft re-branded Zune as Xbox Music on the Xbox 360 with the promise of a complete rollout on October 26.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2012/10/15/xbox-music-hands-on/|title=Xbox Music heads to Xbox 360 first tomorrow, PC / tablets on Oct. 26, WP8 soon after; we go hands-on|work=[[Engadget]]|publisher=[[AOL]]|date=October 15, 2012|first=Ben|last=Gilbert}}</ref>
Zune Music Pass is a music subscription service, which allows subscribers to download an unlimited number of songs for as long as their subscription is active. The songs can be played on up to 3 Windows PCs and on up to 3 other Zune-compatible devices, but cannot be burned to an audio CD. Songs downloaded using Zune Pass are provided in WMA format at192&nbsp;kbit/s and are restricted by DRM. Zune Music Pass subscribers in the United States and other select countries were permitted to keep 10 songs per month even after their subscription ended, however the incentive was ultimately discontinued.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.engadget.com/2006/09/14/Zune-marketplace-to-keep-your-Zune-player-happy/|title=Zune Marketplace To Keep Your Zune Player Happy|date=September 14, 2006|work=[[Engadget]]|publisher=[[AOL]]|first=Cyrus|last=Farivar|access-date=September 19, 2017|archive-date=April 16, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120416081341/http://www.engadget.com/2006/09/14/zune-marketplace-to-keep-your-zune-player-happy|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://zune.net/en-US/products/zunepass/default.htm |title=Zune Pass |work=[[Zune]]|publisher=[[Microsoft]] |access-date=December 17, 2010 |url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080412115556/http://zune.net.:80//en-US/products/zunepass/default.htm |archive-date=April 12, 2008 }}</ref> On October 3, 2011, the Zune Music Pass price was lowered to $9.99/month, and the 10 song credit was removed.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2011/09/29/microsoft-announces-new-10-zune-music-pass-expands-service-to/|title=Microsoft announces new $10 Zune Music Pass, expands service to Canada|work=[[Engadget]]|publisher=[[AOL]]|date=September 29, 2011|first=Donald|last=Melanson}}</ref> On October 15, 2012, Microsoft re-branded Zune as Xbox Music on the Xbox 360 with the promise of a complete rollout on October 26.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2012/10/15/xbox-music-hands-on/|title=Xbox Music heads to Xbox 360 first tomorrow, PC / tablets on Oct. 26, WP8 soon after; we go hands-on|work=[[Engadget]]|publisher=[[AOL]]|date=October 15, 2012|first=Ben|last=Gilbert}}</ref>


==See also==
==See also==
Line 100: Line 107:
*[[Windows Phone]]
*[[Windows Phone]]
*[[Xbox 360]]
*[[Xbox 360]]
*[[IPhone 2G]]


==References==
==References==
{{Reflist}}
{{Reflist|colwidth=30em}}

==External links==
*{{Official website|https://web.archive.org/web/20100522013658/http://www.zune.net/en-US/}}
*[https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/details.aspx?id=27163 Official Microsoft Download]


{{Zune}}
{{Zune}}
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[[Category:Mobile software distribution platforms]]
[[Category:Mobile software distribution platforms]]
[[Category:Online music database clients]]
[[Category:Online music database clients]]
[[Category:Podcasting software]]
[[Category:Streaming music services]]
[[Category:Tag editors]]
[[Category:Tag editors]]
[[Category:Windows CD ripping software]]
[[Category:Windows CD ripping software]]

Latest revision as of 08:51, 25 April 2024

Zune software
Developer(s)Microsoft
Initial releaseNovember 14, 2006
Final release
4.08.2345 / August 22, 2011
Operating systemWindows XP SP3
Windows Vista SP2
Windows 7
Windows 8/8.1[1]
PredecessorWindows Mobile Device Center
SuccessorGroove Music
Microsoft Movies & TV
TypeUtility software
LicenseProprietary software
WebsiteZune software for your PC

Zuneis a discontinued software program that was developed byMicrosoftforWindows[1]that functions as a fullmedia player,library, media streaming server,[2]mobile device management, and interface for the discontinued Zune Marketplace. The software is used to sync with all devices withZunefunctionality including theZune 4, 8, 16,30,80, 120,Zune HD,Windows Phone 7,andMicrosoft Kin.Zune devices work exclusively with the Zune software, which applies many design principles of Microsoft'sMetro design language.

Following the discontinuation of Zune hardware in 2011,[3]the software program was put into maintenance mode. In October 2012 its replacements products were launched: the new phone companion app is used for syncing with devices runningWindows Phone 8(including8.1) andWindows 10 Mobile,[4]while Xbox Music (later known asGroove Music) andMicrosoft Movies & TVwere launched to fill Zune's role as a media player and streamer.[5][6]Zune online services were completely shut down on November 15, 2015.[7]

Content[edit]

As a media player, the Zune software supports the following formats:

multimedia supported formats
Audio MP3,AAC(Low complexity),.mp4,.m4b,.mov,WMA(standard, pro, and lossless)
Video MPEG4(in.mp4,.m4v and.mov containers),H.264(in.mp4,.m4v and.mov containers),WMV,ASF,AVI(in.avi container)
Images JPEG

The Zune software organizes the media in its library and allows users to add to the library byrippingfrom CDs, syncing with a Zune device, and downloading from the Zune Marketplace. The Zune software also allows one to organize songmetadata.It can automatically download album art and metadata tag data for content in the library.

On the PC, the Zune softwarestreamsfiles to other PCs, theXbox 360,and other compatible devices. The Zune software also connects with the Zune social and keeps track of files swapped with other users.

The Zune software runs only on 32-bitWindows XPor 32-bit/64-bitWindows Vista/Windows 7.[8]Windows XP Professional x64 Edition is not supported. The Zune software is also compatible with Windows 8 and Windows 10 so Zune device users would have continued legacy support on the new operating system, despite the Zune brand's phasing out before the 2012 release of the OS.

History[edit]

Main article:Zune Software version history

The 0.1 versions of the Zune software were a modified version ofWindows Media Player11 while versions since 2.0 are built independently with additionalDirectShowdecoders forAAC,MPEG-4andH.264.The current version of the software is 4.08.2345, released on August 22, 2011. Several versions of the software have been released. As of October 16, 2012 Zune becameXbox Music.

Zune Marketplace[edit]

Zune Marketplacewas an online store that offered music, podcasts, TV shows, movies, music videos, and mobile applications. Content could be viewed or purchased on Windows PCs with theZunesoftware installed, Zune devices, theXbox 360,Windows Phonephones, or theMicrosoft Kinphones.[9]Zune Music Marketplace has since been superseded byXbox Music.

Music[edit]

Initially offering 2 million songs, the Zune Marketplace had grown to offer 14 million songs,[10]all of which were available in MP3 format at up to 320 kbit/s and wereDRM-free. Music on Zune Marketplace was offered by thebig four music groups(EMI,Warner Music Group,Sony BMGandUniversal Music Group), as well as smaller music labels.[10]

The home page of the Zune Marketplace shows featured music as selected by Microsoft, and the most popular music. Users can search, or filter by genres including rock, pop, dance, urban, and others.

Prior to Zune Marketplace's music becoming DRM-free, songs were protected by Windows Media DRM however the Zune Software only allowed WMDRM content from the Zune Marketplace to be transferred to Zune devices. Zune Marketplace DRM content could be played by other WMDRM compatible applications and devices.

Videos[edit]

Zune Marketplace offers television shows from the following companies:A&E,Anime,Bravo,Cartoon Network,CBS,Discovery Communications,E!,Fox,20th Century Fox Television,G4,GamerTV,History Channel,Marvel,MLB,NBC,Universal Media Studios,Paley Center,PBS,Spike,Starz,SyFy,TNA,USA Network,andViacom.

Movies fromParamount,Universal,Warner Bros. Pictures,20th Century Foxand other studios are offered for purchase or time-limited rental. Some movies are available in HD. Selected content purchased via Zune Marketplace on the Xbox 360 additionally offers 5.1 surround sound.[11]

Music videos were also offered for purchase. Zune Video Marketplace has been superseded byXbox Video.

Applications[edit]

See also:List of Zune applicationsandWindows Phone Store

Zune Marketplace included an applications section where apps and games could be downloaded for the Zune HD. The store initially launched with nine apps, all of which were developed by Microsoft and released for free. The selection of apps expanded to sixty-two games and applications over two years. Apps that were available included several games,Facebook,Twitter,andWindows Live Messenger.Applications are also available from various independent developers made usingXNA Game Studioor OpenZDK, which useC#andC++respectively. On August 31, 2012, the apps sections of the Zune Marketplace and users' media collections were disabled within the software.

The Zune software also allowed users to browse, purchase, and install Windows Phone apps from Windows Phone Marketplace.

International availability[edit]

Zune Marketplace was originally only available in the United States. In October 2010, certain Zune Marketplace content became available in additional countries in North America, Europe, Asia, and Australasia. The following table shows content availability by country:[12]

Content Countries
Music United States, United Kingdom, France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Canada, Australia
Zune Music Pass United States, United Kingdom, France, Italy, Spain, Canada, Australia
Podcasts United States
TV United States, Canada
Movie Rental United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland
Movie Purchase United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland
Applications United States, United Kingdom, France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Japan, South Korea, Canada, Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Mexico, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Singapore, South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan

It has been discovered that there are a number of workarounds for accessing the Zune Pass and other Zune Marketplace capabilities outside of the countries where it has been launched.

Platforms[edit]

The Zune software for Windows PCs offers the entire selection of music, podcasts, videos, and applications. The Xbox 360 offers movie and music video downloads, as well as Zune Pass streaming. Zune devices, Windows Phone devices and the Microsoft Kin phones permit the download and streaming of music; Windows Phone devices additionally allow the download of applications.

Pricing[edit]

Purchases are made in theMicrosoft Pointscurrency, which can also be used to purchase content from Xbox Live and Games for Windows Live marketplaces. The exchange rate is one United States dollar to 80 Microsoft points. Most music tracks are priced at 79 points or 99 points.[citation needed]This works out to US$0.9875 or US$1.24 per song.

Zune Music Pass[edit]

Zune Music Pass is a music subscription service, which allows subscribers to download an unlimited number of songs for as long as their subscription is active. The songs can be played on up to 3 Windows PCs and on up to 3 other Zune-compatible devices, but cannot be burned to an audio CD. Songs downloaded using Zune Pass are provided in WMA format at 192 kbit/s and are restricted by DRM. Zune Music Pass subscribers in the United States and other select countries were permitted to keep 10 songs per month even after their subscription ended, however the incentive was ultimately discontinued.[13][14]On October 3, 2011, the Zune Music Pass price was lowered to $9.99/month, and the 10 song credit was removed.[15]On October 15, 2012, Microsoft re-branded Zune as Xbox Music on the Xbox 360 with the promise of a complete rollout on October 26.[16]

See also[edit]

References[edit]

  1. ^abThurrott, Paul(June 11, 2012)."Windows 8 Tip: Syncing a Windows Phone or Zune Device".SuperSite for Windows.Penton.RetrievedMarch 17,2013.
  2. ^"Media Sharing FAQ".Zune.Microsoft.Archived fromthe originalon April 12, 2008.RetrievedNovember 21,2008.
  3. ^"Microsoft Zune Discontinued Amidst Falling Demand".Hypebot.2011-03-15.Retrieved2023-10-18.
  4. ^Byford, Sam (2012-10-29)."Microsoft releases Windows Phone 8 syncing app for Windows 8 and RT".The Verge.Retrieved2023-10-18.
  5. ^Gilbert, Ben (October 15, 2012)."With the launch of Xbox Music, Zune is truly no more".Engadget.AOL.
  6. ^Peckham, Matt (2012-10-16)."Can Microsoft's New Xbox Music Service Do What Zune Couldn't?".Time.ISSN0040-781X.Retrieved2023-10-18.
  7. ^"Zune retirement FAQ".Support.Microsoft.October 20, 2015. Archived fromthe originalon November 22, 2015.
  8. ^Dhiman, Viney (March 3, 2014)."Zune Software Computer System Requirement".Nerd's magazine.
  9. ^"Zune Marketplace".Zune.Microsoft.Archived fromthe originalon April 12, 2008.RetrievedDecember 17,2010.
  10. ^abStroh, Michael (September 29, 2011)."Zune expands to Canada, drops Zune Pass price in US".The Windows Blog.Microsoft.Archived fromthe originalon February 2, 2012.RetrievedSeptember 19,2012.
  11. ^"More films, faster with Zune".Xbox.Microsoft.Archived fromthe originalon June 11, 2009.
  12. ^"Zune to Expand Multiscreen Entertainment Services Into International Markets".News Center.Microsoft.September 20, 2010.
  13. ^Farivar, Cyrus (September 14, 2006)."Zune Marketplace To Keep Your Zune Player Happy".Engadget.AOL.Archived fromthe originalon April 16, 2012.RetrievedSeptember 19,2017.
  14. ^"Zune Pass".Zune.Microsoft.Archived fromthe originalon April 12, 2008.RetrievedDecember 17,2010.
  15. ^Melanson, Donald (September 29, 2011)."Microsoft announces new $10 Zune Music Pass, expands service to Canada".Engadget.AOL.
  16. ^Gilbert, Ben (October 15, 2012)."Xbox Music heads to Xbox 360 first tomorrow, PC / tablets on Oct. 26, WP8 soon after; we go hands-on".Engadget.AOL.

External links[edit]

Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Zune_software&oldid=1220686528"