Microsoft Zune: Still Here.
In a rather sad, if not bizarre display of competitive marketing, Microsoft’s Zune is still on the market. And they’re still trying to de-throne the mighty iPod, which has clearly established itself as the dominant digital music player (with online music-management and purchasing system). The latest salvo shows Microsoft taking a stab at the price of the songs with iTunes, and the price to fill an iPod $1 at a time.
Here’s why this is ridiculous: First, most people don’t fill their iPods with purchased songs from iTunes, they rip their already-existing collection of CDs, and in no time at all, they’ve got a library. Second, the goal of an iPod isn’t to fill it with music, but just to take your songs on the go. That’s like saying “don’t buy this awesome convertible car, it has terrible towing capacity.” Third, you’re assuming that people who own iPods are ready and willing to spend money in the first place! There are a large population of music lovers who think the idea of a subscription model is absurd, regardless of the value, and they are perfectly content listening to free podcasts and they’re existing library, thanks very much.
This ad is so classically Microsoft I have to laugh a little. The iPod rose to prominence on the backs of advertising that literally said nothing — it had no dialogue, but instead shows silhouettes dancing and people strolling on streets with their favourite tunes plugged into their brains. No need to “sell” it. But Microsoft has to talk us to death about why we’re wrong for thinking what we think, why all consumers are idiots and why they’re always right. Maybe Microsoft should less time telling us why we’re wasting money, and more time developing better products.
Oh, and seriously, when is the Zune going bye-bye.
