Maybe the Zune phone already exists. Enter Windows Mobile?

I'll say it right up front: the original source article has magically disappeared from the web and I couldn't even see it in Google's cache of the site. However, the idea has merit to it, so rumor-disclosure aside, here you go.

Zune Thoughts came across an interesting piece that indicates a possible revamp of the MSN Music service with a tie-in to the Zune Marketplace and access via Windows Mobile. If true, this could allow for Marketplace purchases or Zune Pass streaming to a non-Zune device; something you can already do with a Windows PC of course, but what about Windows Mobile devices? On one hand it makes sense if you think about it. I've read that a Windows Mobile 6.1 update could be seen early next year (I have no confirmation) and that could be a compelling feature upgrade that builds upon the hundreds of thousands of handhelds running WinMo out there. It could expand the Zune brand as a music store by leaps and bounds and attempt to counter the iTunes WiFi store.

The potential downside is that it could cannibalize sales of Zune hardware as well, but still, an interesting play if true. Again, the source story is gone, so take from this what you will. Maybe people have been focusing too much on adding phone capabilities to a new Zune that they're missing possible Zune functions added to an old phone?

Comments

[Hoby]

Zune pass already works with Windows Mobile... it has for quite some time, you just need to use Windows Media Player to sync the songs you downloaded with it... they expire just like they would on the Zune if you don't sync every so often.

[Kevin C. Tofel]

Good point Hoby, but I was thinking that we might see OTA or WiFi access to Zune Pass and Zune Marketplace.

[Frank McPherson]

Wait, you can sync and play music from Zune Pass in Windows Media Player? Then sync to Windows Mobile and play? Even subscription music?

I am going to have to figure that out and try it. I wouldn't mind getting some of my subscription music over on my WinMo device. Any pointers to instructions?

[M Freitas]

No conspiracy theories, citizen! Nothing to see here, move along...

Seriously though, both the original post and the smartphonethoughts post are still there...

[Jake]

I thought I read that the Zune software was based on Windows Mobile. Apologies if I'm wrong :)

[Adam Krebs]

Hey,
I just checked back with MSFT and the Future's blog, and it seems he was just speculating. Apologies for the misinformation and feel free to contact me if you have any further concerns.

[Jerad from Indiana]

M Freitas, I was just going to reply to say the same thing. I don't remember where I heard it, but I also read/heard that the new Zune software is based on Windows Mobile. It's only natural that the software be installed on a mobile phone.