Microsoft Hints At Zune Games Content

Xbox European boss Chris Lewis has admitted for the first time that Microsoft is considering games content for the recently released portable multimedia player Zune. Speaking to consumer website Total Video Games, Lewis stated, “You can already plug your Zune device into your Xbox 360 to stream music, pictures and video content. Looking ahead, the vision for connected entertainment provides a number of consumer scenarios and with our heritage in Xbox and Games For Windows, gaming is certainly something we’re considering for the device.” Xbox 360 users are already able to use Microsoft Points to purchase music tracks for the Zune via Xbox Live, but Lewis’ comments hint that Microsoft is considering expanding the connection between Zune, the Xbox 360 and Xbox Live in general. The device has also recently been made compatible with the forthcoming Windows Vista operating system for the PC. Although rumored not to be due for release in Europe until 2008, Zune launched this winter in North America to mixed technical reviews and retail demand. According to recent data from NPD Group, sales for the Zune’s second month fell significantly, from a 9 percent market share to just 1.9 percent. The Apple iPod remained unchanged at 62.2 percent, with SanDisk in second place – rising from 17.5 percent to 18.4 percent.