Rumors went rampant a few days ago about the Microsoft Zune being dead. It appeared that numerous sources were reporting that Microsoft plans on killing off the hardware aspect of Zune and instead focus on the software aspect. However, Dave McLauchlan, business developer at Microsoft for the Zune HD, agues otherwise.
As we reported, a “person familiar with the decision” is saying that Microsoft won’t be producing any new Zune media players. Instead, Microsoft will be focusing on the software aspect of Zune.
Dave McLauchlan, business developer at Microsoft for the Zune HD, posted a comment on a forum called “Anything But Ipod.” Heres what he had to say:
“I’ve had tweets, emails, PMs and phone calls. People offering condolences, checking in on me, etc… etc… Stop, stop, stop!
The Bloomberg article is NOT an official statement from Microsoft (apart from the quote above). The headline is purportedly from a “person familiar with the matter” – which of course tells you nothing.
Here’s what you should know – ALL consumer electronics products have a lifespan, and the Zune HD is 18mo old. We were completely frank about this year’s Zune hardware being the WP7 phones, and we continue to both sell and fully support the Zune HD line of products. And as I’ve promised – we continue to bring new apps and games to the platform. More of those are in the works, I promise you.
I manage business development for Zune hardware, and I still have that job. Our PR folks released a statement today that included the text: “We’ll share more information about the evolution of the Zune entertainment service and Zune hardware as future plans develop.”
To be 100% clear – NO information about our future plans, no matter what the incarnation, has been shared. Until then treat with healthy skepticism anything you read. That’s probably a good general rule actually.
So for those who tweeted or emailed asking what I’m “going to do now” – I’ll be going to work tomorrow, working on Zune hardware bizdev. And when Microsoft announces news that is actually news, you’ll hear it from us directly, and I’ll be sure to pass it on immediately. Only then should you take it as gospel.”
Cheers, Dave.
This makes us wonder if the Zune is really dead or still kicking?
