Could the mysterious new Microsoft product be some sort of Zune HD?

Rumors have been circulating for some time now in regards to whatever is next for the Zune brand at Microsoft.  While much speculation has focused on a Zune phone, which Microsoft says is not happening, it seems the reality may be a whole lot closer to what iPod Touch users already know and love.

While some folks are referring to it as the “Zune HD”, Team XBOX is reporting that insiders are calling it the “xYz” until a final name is determined at some later date.  The code name is designed to suggest that the new device is a mixture of the existing Xbox and Zune platforms, but also a totally separate device at the same time.

Seeing as the name combines elements of Xbox and Zune, it is only fitting that the device is rumored to do the same.  Apparently, if the rumors hold to be true, this device will feature something called “Live Anywhere” which will allow you to access your Live purchases such as movies from your xYz while out of the house.  In the reverse, if you were to make a purchase on your handheld, it would also show up on your console the next time you started it up.

By far the deepest wrinkle to this entire mystery is the implication one can make from the “Live Anywhere” tagline.  A name like that sure conjures up images in one’s mind of being on the subway during your morning commute playing your latest downloaded video, but the sources are saying that it isn’t a cell phone, and that it does not access any cellular network to make its features work.  About the only option that leaves is the fledgling WiMax service, but is Microsoft going to build a device around a service that is only available in a handful of locations?

While portions of the rumor have a ring of truth to them, other parts seem too far fetched to be realistic, only time will separate the fact from fiction on this one.

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Entry was posted on Friday, May 15th, 2009 at 8:46 pm under Media players, Microsoft.

Read more entries by Sean P. Aune.
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