Microsoft Zune - perhaps under the influence of its founding father - has had a definite pro-art platform that it has pursued (see our posts on free zune movies and wallpapers and free zune videos for example)

So its a pleasure to see some extreme edge on offer.  

 

 

Wizzardx are now making extreme sport programs available on a weekly basis for Zune - and as you can see from the above samples, these videos are great

AND, if you cannot access the Zune marketplace (not available in your area!) then you might try this neat method for downloading from itunes (really, MS, you need to go and learn a heap from Apple about how to set up a really user-friendly media store!) 

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Microsoft seem to be aiming their Zune marketing at buyers with culture and sophistication! But as cool as this may be? it has not created the kind of buzz that builds sales - which, after all, means less incentive (funds) to develop Zune features, software. etc.

The media response to Zune is limp, to say the least. For example, Reuters has published 5 articles about Zune so far in 2008. This compares to 9 articles on iPod for the month of August alone and 426 iPod-related articles for the year to date!

And Microsoft are not helping things when they continue to delay promised features. The lack lustre response of the media to the latest rumors that Microsoft will finally introduce the Zune phone, can best understood from the following video review.

Perhaps its not "sophistication" that distinguishes the Zune owner from other MP3 owners, but a greater sense of humor!

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Free videos can often be fairly amateurish - for obvious reasons (no cash inflow from sales!) So we were delighted to discover Wizzard Media where we can download lots of excellent videos to our Zune. 

Wizzard Media specializes in podcasts - or, in their words

Wizzard Media collectively broadcasts millions of podcast downloads per day through media aggregators like Apple's iTunes, Microsoft’s Zune Marketplace and other podcast aggregators.

Whilst most of their podcasts are audio, there are plenty of excellent videos to get excited about:

Keen on nature? National Geographic has a selection of short videos - and if we subscribe, we can automatically receive each new show as it arrives:

Been avoiding that long trip because it can be a trial with young kids? Check out wubcasts - the "worlds first video podcast for pre-schooolers" There are 20 episodes already available! And no need for expensive equipment - they can watch it on Zune,

In fact, there are video selections across a big range of topics from comedy to "science and medicine" and much in between. Guys: want to impress your new girlfriend by cooking her great meal at her place - but don't actually know how to cook? Download this simple, easy to follow podcast to Zune and you have your guide in your pocket!

In fact, there are over 800,000 hours of audio and video shows available on the Wizzard Media Network. The latest podcasts are showcased on their wizard home page - but you can check this link for listings for over 300 videos available through wizard

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Came across this cartoon while browsing and could not resist adding it here!

Is this the ultimate test of Zune geekiness?

Check out the rest of the cartoon and if you find yourself wanting to sing along, then….

 

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Microsoft have outdone themselves by producing Zune Originals. According to Microsoft, these: "allow you to custom-build your Zune with laser-engraved exclusive artwork" 

Now the artwork is pretty varied - no doubt to cater for all taste. But it is artwork! In fact some 18 well known artists from around the globe were invited to submit their work for inclusion in the "tattoo" series.

Zune Originals, 'Tattoo' Series

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WOW! Have you seen the Zune 3?

It's truly a work of art… no kidding…

Eat your heart out Apple Computer. You will NEVER make something as cool as the Zune 3.

Have you got one yet?

Leave me comment and let me know whether you're going to get one.

I'm on my way to buy one now! 

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So how cool is this guy?

You can't really call yourself a Zune Fan without getting a Zune Tat.

Or can you?…. ;-) 

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