Overblown tech headline of the day

Wired News: Microsoft Readies Its IPod Killer

SEATTLE — Microsoft said on Friday it plans to release a new music and entertainment player and accompanying software under the “Zune” brand this year, in a belated attempt to challenge the dominance of Apple Computer’s iPod player.

Microsoft confirmed the plans for an entertainment device and software in a statement after touting those products to record companies in recent months.

The world’s largest software maker faces an uphill climb in closing the gap on Apple’s iPod media player and iTunes Music Store, the runaway leaders in their respective areas.

The iPod holds more than half of the digital media player market, according to research company NPD, while iTunes accounts for over 70 percent of U.S. digital music sales.

Technorati Tags: ipod, Zune

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