Microsoft Revamps Zune Line-up

Three new Zunes plus an online social network and cleaned-up online store will join the Zune family this fall.

Microsoft’s oft-mocked media player, the Zune, got a makeover on Tuesday with the introduction of three new models, as well as a new Zune social network and online marketplace.

The new models will come in 80GB, 8GB and 4GB capacities, with retail prices of $249.99, $199.99 and $149.99 respectively. The largest model will be the only one to sport a hard drive – both smaller models will be flash based. It also gets a 3.2-inch LCD and one color choice: black. The 4GB and 8GB units will be available in pink, green, black and red. Like the originals, every new Zune will be wireless-enabled.

The new social network, Zune Social, will attempt to link people up based on their musical preferences. The site revolves around the “Zune Card,” which shows most recently played tracks and highlights a person’s music favorites. Other members will be able to listen to demo tracks from another person’s Zune Card or download them through the Zune Marketplace.

Microsoft has also changed the Zune Marketplace, which now has a new look and feel as well as some new features. Typing in an artist’s name now gives users a full view of that artist’s offerings in every medium, plus a view of what users already own. The store now boasts 3 million songs for sale, with 1 million offered as DRM-free MP3s.

To round out the new line, Microsoft will also add a variety of accessories, from faceplates, leather cases and headphones to AC adapters and docks.