Microsoft's Zune HD is on schedule to launch across the U.S. this coming Tuesday September 15, but consumers who've been hoping for a global release have had their hopes dashed by a Microsoft spokesperson.
Speaking to Ars Technica, a spokesperson for the Redmond giant stated that "for the time being the Zune HD device will remain US only."
"Right now we are focused on deploying an exciting service in the form of Zune Video to 18 markets. We are looking at potential future hardware experiences for these markets, but do not have anything to announce right now," the spokesperson adds.
Despite refuting any rumours of a global release, Microsoft's comments should provide at least a glimmer of hope. "For the time being", "potential future hardware experiences" and "do not have anything to announce right now" are comments that do little to eradicate ongoing rumours hinting at the possibility of a global Zune device further down the line.
Furthermore, Microsoft also plans to make its Zune Marketplace available to users of its Xbox 360 console in the UK, France, Italy, Germany, Ireland and Spain. Although a launch time frame hasn't yet been announced, one might assume that the arrival of Zune-hosted content to the European market may pave the way for a European release of Zune hardware.
Are you willing to wait in hope, or have Microsoft's comments encouraged you to take another look at Apple's refreshed line of iPods? Share your thoughts in the HEXUS.community forums.
