Snappy newsletters. Simple Facebook sharing. Spirited comments. Sweet features are waiting… GET THEM NOW!

Zune Sales Plummeting

Is mp3 gizmo doomed?

By Kevin Spak,  Newser Staff

Posted Jan 24, 2009 11:05 AM CST

(Newser) – Is the Zune on its last legs? Buried in Microsoft’s terrible earnings report yesterday was news that revenue from the MP3 player plummeted $100 million compared to last year, or 54%, “reflecting a decrease in device sales.” Microsoft can’t just blame the economy, either; sales of rival iPod are still rising. The release states that Microsoft will continue making “significant investments” in the Zune, notes Podcasting News. But for how long?

New models of Microsoft Corp.'s Zune portable media players that were announced Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2007 are shown at at Microsoft headquarters in Redmond, Wash.
New models of Microsoft Corp.'s Zune portable media players that were announced Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2007 are shown at at Microsoft headquarters in Redmond, Wash.   (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren)
In this file image provided by Microsoft Corp, the Zune 16 media player is shown.
In this file image provided by Microsoft Corp, the Zune 16 media player is shown.   (AP Photo/Microsoft, file)
One of three new Microsoft Corp. Zune portable media players that were announced Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2007 is shown at Microsoft headquarters in Redmond, Wash.
One of three new Microsoft Corp. Zune portable media players that were announced Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2007 is shown at Microsoft headquarters in Redmond, Wash.   (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren)
« Prev« Prev | Next »Next » Slideshow
To report an error on this story, notify our editors.
A snapshot of the day's best news stories.
 
COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 4 comments
MarkFL
Jan 24, 2009 9:54 PM CST
I like my zune. I am not opposed to the ipod but I hate DRM and I got 30GB for half the ipod cost. Apple is a lot of hype. It has its strengths and the iphone is cool but in terms of computing, PC is still better on affordability, user control, software availability, intuitive interface, and upgradability. There is nothing wrong with the Zune except that it is seen as a cheap knockoff. If people used it they would change their tune.
Guest
Jan 24, 2009 4:23 AM CST
I would need at least three things out of a portable MP3 player: Durability, user-friendliness, and affordability. The iPod is none of those. F Apple.
Guest
Jan 24, 2009 2:51 AM CST
I tried using my roommate's Zune with my feet. It didn't work out.

More Newser Stories

Apple Asks Outside Group to Inspect Plants

Google, Yahoo, 13 Others Declare War on Phishing

Microsoft Prodigy Dies at 16

Microsoft on Comeback Trail

What Facebookers Plan to Do With Their IPO Riches


NEWS FROM OUR PARTNERS
Other Sites We Like:   24/7 Wall St.   |   Betty Confidential   |   BuzzFeed   |   Cracked   |   Fark   |   Timelines   |   The Frisky   |   Geek Sugar   |   NewsOne