Welcome to the Social: As Microsoft launches Zune this week, the goal is not to manufacture another digital music player [...]

 The initial market response to Zune is going to be fascinating...

Jubelirer said that Zune, which has an estimated retail price of US$249.99, is the entry point of a multi-year experience, and that Microsoft is investing heavily in innovation. Jubelirer notes that it is the software that will make the difference in the digital entertainment age – and through updates to the Zune software, consumers will be able to enjoy new scenarios as they become available. This is what Microsoft calls “future proofing.”

“Future proofing ensures that the devices we sell tomorrow are prepared for the scenarios of the future,” Jubelirer said. “A person should be able to buy a device tomorrow, and with wireless technology, improve on that device through software in the future. We’ve made the investments in the device that we needed to make – so people can be prepared for what’s ahead. Without that, if there were a new scenario in the future, you'd have to buy a new device to get it.”

Source: Welcome to the Social: As Microsoft launches Zune this week, the goal is not to manufacture another digital music player [...]