Windows only: Microsoft's Zune HD was released yesterday and it looks great, but whether you've got the latest Zune, an older model, or just like the Zune desktop player, Zune 4.0 brings new features and an improved look to desktop music players.The Zune player sets itself apart from iTunes in one important way (not including the whole iPod vs. Zune support). As the Zune marketing folks put it: 'Browse music, not spreadsheets.' That is to say, the Zune player doesn't have the all-business text columns like iTunes, focusing instead on a rich graphical interface. (Though iTunes album views have headed in this direction, too.) It's a refreshing way to look at music, even though after playing with it, I'm not sure I really like it better. It seems better suited for a television and remote than monitor and mouse, and the way the new Quickplay page reacts to my mouse movements takes some getting used to. That said, it does look very nice. The update has also added:
- A new Quickplay page gives you 'instant access to the stuff you care about most with shortcuts to favorites, recently downloaded or played music, and more.'
- The Smart DJ feature can generate related playlists starting from any song on your computer and some music from the Zune Marketplace. (Think of it like Genius in iTunes.)
- An expanded Zune Marketplace includes more HD movies and TV shows.