It’s uneasy to digest the fact that Microsoft is happy and knows that someone from their own organization leaks information about their high-profile upcoming product. This apparently is the case with a MS software engineer who has been leaking Zune HD related info. Neowin interviewed this guy and even though the interview is uninteresting, it does reveal some more info about Zune HD, which Microsoft is yet to confirm.

According to him, Microsoft is working out with different video publishers to license their HD (720p) videos so that users can buy it and download it from the Zune HD marketplace. He also revealed Zune HD’s storage which for the time being will compete with iPod Touch’s 16 and 32GB offering but Microsoft is planning to up till 64GB that will be added later on in the model year.

The 16GB will cost in between $249-$280, making it somewhat cheaper than a 16GB iPod Touch.

[Via Neowin]

Microsoft insists on a fall release for the Zune HD without revealing the date but it looks like Paul Thurrott from Winsupersite have spilled the beans. He claims September 5 as the shipping date, which if we recall is the same month rumored before for the US as well as the international release.

[Via gizmodo]

Being one of the best technology blogs in the world, do have some perks. At the D7 conference, Engadget managed to convince Ballmer to show them the recently announced Zune HD and even pose with it. For now, there’s nothing much to tell except to ogle its lovely OLED screen. Maybe there is, it’s coming out this fall.

More photos, here.

UPDATE: Gizmodo also got a hands-on of the device along with the video (embedded below).

After a series of leaks, Microsoft has officially acknowledged its next-gen Zune player. Though the full specs of the Zune HD are not out yet, the things confirmed are almost accurate to the rumored specs. It has a 3.3-inch 16:9 OLED (480×272) multitouch display, HD Radio, HD Video-out with the help of an AV Dock, Wi-Fi and a web browser. The Zune HD will arrive in US this fall with no signs of an international launch.

The Zune Marketplace will also be integrated with the Xbox Live Video Marketplace, giving users a wide selection of TV shows and films. Microsoft will be showcasing the service at the E3 next month with the launch expected this fall.

Zune HD

Press Release