Windows 7 Code/ Microsoft's next-generation Zunes

The Zune hardware group that Microsoft moved into the Windows Mobile unit previously this year nevertheless has one additional media-player refresh up their sleeves, immediately after all.Based on new suggestions and tweets this week, Microsoft is readying new Zune gamers which will debut before the finish of 2009. (Prior to this week, all we had had been some half-hearted statements that Microsoft wasn;t killing off its Zune line.)After the new line debuts (not just right here within the U.S., but internationally, Neowin reported), Microsoft is expected to place its Zune concentrate on solutions, instead of dedicated media players.The next likely form element where Zune technology is expected to display up in some way is as part of “Pink,” the consumer-focused cellular platform that will be based on the Windows Mobile 7 core. If Microsoft sticks to its current schedule, Windows Mobile 7 and Pink are probably to roll out in the first fifty percent of 2010.Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer foreshadowed the future of the Zune platform in February of this 12 months, during his annual strategic update for Wall Street analysts. Ballmer told analysts:“We;re bringing our services, our gaming service, and our Zune Service, not the Zune hardware but the Zune Entertainment Service, to all three screens, PC, phone, and TV. So it becomes a fundamental part of building a real business around TV sets.”(This isn;t too surprising when you remember that the Zune software and providers team now resides in Enrique Rodriguez;s division. Rodriguez runs Microsoft;s Mediaroom and Media Center TV businesses. The Zune hardware crew is under Tom Gibbons, who is Corporate Vice President for Phone Strategy and Commercialization for Microsoft;s Mobile Communications Business.Even if Microsoft offers the best service and support plan imaginable,Windows 7 Code/, I;d be leery of buying what seems destined to be the last of the dedicated Zune devices that Microsoft intends to build.What do you say, Zune fans and foes? Are the forthcoming Zunes already passe?Update: 1 of the original sources of the next-gen Zune rumors seems to think this won;t be the last Zune player from Microsoft. I;d say if it isn;t, it isn;t far off…. His tweet:Update No. 2: Someone has leaked the alleged marketing materials for the Zune that;s coming this fall.