Zune firmware update v1.3 is out

It was but a mere eight days ago when we suggested that the number one thing that would currently improve the Zune's status would be to get firmware v1.3 out to end users, and thankfully, that day has come. Sure, it's arriving ever-so-slightly behind schedule, but ZuneInsider is reporting that the latest software is finally available for download now, and it sounds like that annoying skipping problem with Zune Marketplace content will be addressed, as well as throwing in "improved device and software reliability" in the "device detection / syncing" departments. Additionally, the FM tuner drain has also been fixed so that it no longer eats away battery life in sleep mode. So while Microsoft still has a ways to go in our estimation in order to seriously compete, here's to taking the first baby step.

[Thanks, Matt]

[greg @ Mar 28th 2007 6:03PM]

apple has it flaws too. apple released itunes 7 and many itunes wouldn't function and some would barely play music, just with no other windows open. you call that good testing before releasing a product. dont even try to call some fanboy or what ever, im pointing out NOTHING IN LIFE IS PERFECT LIKE YOU. People arn't going to spend $300 on a new mp3 just because there is skipping problem with a few songs not all their songs are from the market place and duh microsoft is going to fix it, but it might take a little time.

[dvslamont @ Mar 28th 2007 3:39PM]

just hit update and its telling me im running the latest..
1.2?

[dvslamont @ Mar 28th 2007 3:45PM]

nevermind i was updating software not firmware
hit the right button and its updated and working fine now

[Crooky @ Mar 28th 2007 4:20PM]

/Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz....
/wakes up
Wha what?
Oh. Zune.
/goes back to sleep.

[anonymouspimp @ Mar 28th 2007 5:18PM]

You guys sure sound insecure... what compels you to come into every Zune article and post nonsense?

We understand. You like your iPod and you hate Microsoft.

Well, I like my iPod, and I love my Zune.

IMO, it does what my iPod does, only it has better video and an FM tuner. I also don't think the iPod click wheel has much (actually, ANY) advantage over the Zune controls. Only downside it has, IMO, is its bulkiness, which doesn't actually bother me at all... it just sits in my pocket like my iPod does...

Yes, they took too long to get v1.3 out. But this is their first time through this. At least they don't just release a new generation of the product when the public demands improvement, forcing the consumer to spend $100's to stay up to date.

If Apple wants to stay on top forever, they better take a few notes on what some of these other companies are doing, too.

[Ogre @ Mar 28th 2007 4:40PM]

Total User Downloads of v1.3 Update : 0

[mrhammerstein @ Mar 28th 2007 5:08PM]

your post is so dumb because only the 2nd post had someone downloading it.

it would have been better to say 7 downloads. because 7 is a good number. 0 is just ridiculous.

[kynetx @ Mar 28th 2007 5:09PM]

OH HA HA NOBODY BOUGHT THE ZOON AND IT IS BROWN LIKE POOP. HA. HA. HA.

Seriously. Why do people have to troll Zune comments? It's a really good device. You should try it.

[Eric @ Mar 28th 2007 5:32PM]

It was but a mere eight days ago when we suggested that the number one thing that would currently improve the Zune's status

Oh please... act like you had something to do with it.

[steve @ Mar 28th 2007 5:43PM]

@anonymouspimp, i think your poor logic is showing...are you arguing in the zune's favor with the point that "it's [microsoft's] first time through this."? and then implying that microsoft is the only one improving their device through updates for free? and that hardware improvements (ipod = no update in a year and a half) are bad for the consumer?

what an interesting take.

[anonymouspimp @ Mar 28th 2007 6:05PM]

@Steve, I wasn't really arguing anything... I guess I was more "pointing out the obvious" fact that Microsoft is improving (or fixing, whatever you want to call it) through updates for free. Which is something Apple has never really done. Apple's idea of an update is releasing a new generation.

IMO, the only thing Apple updated through "hardware improvements" (ie, new generations) since they were first introduced in 2001 is the addition of video playback capabilities (and in some instances, the complete removal of the display altogether, call that a 'hardware improvement' if you want) and boy did you have to pay for it! (although that was at least a year and a half late if not more). And they "improved" the player by making it smaller from generation to generation (which should be expected, and admittedly can't be done without a new generation, obviously). They also added the clickwheel (someone elses patented technology, i believe). At times, it even appeared that other than making the iPod smaller, no substantial changes were even made. For the love of god, throw in an FM tuner or something.

Alas, the iPod is a good player... and as I said, as a player, I like my iPod. But it's no Zune, IMO.

[Steve @ Mar 29th 2007 3:01PM]

@anonymouspimp, you acknowledge right off the bat that zune is "fixing" its problems through updates....you're saying zune is better because apple doesn't have major issues to fix on the ipod? and you're wrong anyway: ipod updater added "letter-overlay" scrolling enhancements and other significant interface improvemnts to my 15-month-old 5g ipod some months ago.... you're even calling apple bad for updating ipod hardware, which zune will have to do at the same pace, but hasn't - because it hasn't been out long enough.

and just as an aside, the reason ipod succeeds (and zune does not) is it maintains simplicity where its competitors fall victim to "we can do it so lets do it" syndrome - packing in chintzy, complicating crap like a radio. yeah, some people want it, and they have the option via attachment - and importantly, the rest of us don't have to pay for/scroll through unused crap on our ipods.

[Gabe @ Mar 29th 2007 1:40AM]

anonymouspimp:

"@Steve, I wasn't really arguing anything... I guess I was more "pointing out the obvious" fact that Microsoft is improving (or fixing, whatever you want to call it) through updates for free. Which is something Apple has never really done. Apple's idea of an update is releasing a new generation."

Actually, Apple has added a lot of new functionality to iPods through firmware updates in addition to fixing bugs. AAC support, Apple Lossless support, new built in games like "Music Quiz" etc. were added to older iPods via firmware updates. 5th generation iPods gained gapless support and downloadable games through a firmware update. Of course, they couldn't add a bigger hard disk or a color screen or a smaller enclosure (mini, nano etc.) via firmware updates, so they released new generations.

How will Microsoft add bigger hard disks or a wide screen (16:10) or flash memory through firmware updates?

[Larryi5 @ Mar 28th 2007 6:11PM]

zune has nothing to offer, same with ipod. they both suck. get a zen people

[joey @ Mar 28th 2007 6:16PM]

and let the Microsoft/Zune bashing begin.....

[Richard @ Mar 28th 2007 6:34PM]

Just installed the new firmware, can't wait to check out the playback now :)
Checked software for updates too, and it found one. So either this is new too, or somehow I missed one...

[Derka @ Mar 28th 2007 6:35PM]

To anyone bashing the Zune: your wrong. I was against it until someone got one for me. It rocks. Sure theres a few kinks but not as many as that crap Ipod.

[Sam @ Mar 28th 2007 7:44PM]

Damn you Zune people make me laugh. I don't think the iPod is perfect but jeeze the Zune is NOT at all any better. Sure is easy to enter a market after it's been pioneered by other people. Oh wait, that's what Microsoft does best.

[AggieCEO @ Mar 28th 2007 9:27PM]

I updated mine just now........

big whoop.........

doesnt affect me because I dont buy music thru Zune Marketplace............

I have a LOT of shows that I convert over to .wmv format to watch during my downtime when I'm out and about........

they should make it so we can send videos that way I can send people my cartoon........

should also add storage support..........

I would like the ability just drag stuff onto it and off of it.........

[The Aggie CEO™ @ Mar 28th 2007 9:35PM]

oh yea.....

also the ability to use wifi to move files back and forth as well........

[orcy @ Mar 28th 2007 9:40PM]

I just got the update and now the thing won't recognize the existence of my zune whatsoever or even charge. This device has been quite annoying.

[Dragod @ Mar 28th 2007 10:37PM]

Okay, I've actually had both a Zune and an iPod. Got an iPod for Christmas, but it just wasn't for me. I found the clickwheel annoying, as it hurt my thumb after about an hour. It's fine when I was using it for about 15 minutes when I borrowed my friends' iPods, but after I used it continuously I couldn't stand it. It's a good player, I just prefer my Zune. The controls are slightly more forgiving and I like the layout. People just have different taste, people.

Different strokes for different folks.

[Jamie @ Mar 28th 2007 10:46PM]

Yaawnnnnnn

I'm I lowest rank yet you insecure paying zune testers?

zzzzzzzzzzzzz

[bigmofobubba @ Mar 28th 2007 11:20PM]

The update actually worked well for me! It installed with no problems and music playback and syncing has became more pleasant. Before the update songs that I obtained from the Zune Marketplace froze for a few seconds before they played, and now they don't! It also recognizes my zune faster than before. I think this update really did make an improvement.

And by the way, the iPod is a piece of crap compared to the Zune. Try one out yourself you'll be impressed. And stop reading all the ignorant reviews from people who have never even seen or used a Zune.

[johnnyboy @ Mar 29th 2007 7:36AM]

am i just too dumb or where can i download the update? i'm not able to find any link around here...?!

[GBaz @ Mar 29th 2007 9:30AM]

Best Buy als took your sugestion and put a $20 instant rebate on the Zune. Out the door for $229.99.

[fbc @ Mar 29th 2007 11:08AM]

Has anyone started a pool on when the last Zune is manufactured?

If not, I'll take October 31, 2007.

[ePants @ Mar 29th 2007 12:02PM]

Attn: iPod/Zune Trolls
The mistake too many of you make is asserting that _all_ iPods (past, present,and future) are inherently superior to _all_ Zunes (past, present, and future), OR vice verca, based either on factors/features which may actually change with the next release/update of either product line or on the inherent good/evil qualities of their respective companies.

I own an iPod (G5), but have dabbled with Zunes owned by friends. I'm more fond of the chic style of the iPods in general, but I appreciate the better video capability and overal durability of the Zune. As products, they do exactly what they were inteded to do, and they apeal to those they were meant to entice.

Both companies are well aware of their target demographic, and consequently they lend themselves easily to critiques by those /not/ in that demographic. Microsoft offers many products, with customizations options, even on the fly. Apple prefers to sell an /image/ and not just a /product/. One consequence of selling an image is that people who don't like that image will be less impressed with the overall product.

It's not just supply and demand; it's supply and purchase. Many iPod freaks demand better specs from Zunes, but will never buy one. Similarly, Zune freaks make demands of the iPod, knowing they won't buy one even if their complaints were met.

Neither can be measured as "better" than the other, because they were intended to do different things to appeal to different people, in order to make money. The only real goal they have in common is to make money. If that were the standard by which we measure a product's success or value, these discussions would greatly different and it would, quite honestly, be perfectly clear which product is "better" of these two.

[Lumen @ Mar 29th 2007 2:09PM]

I bought Zune 2 weeks ago (for $180) and am very happy with it. I also own a 4G and 5G iPod.

The one thing that I want Microsoft to add (update) is podcast support. In fairness to Apple, they did this for free on the 4G iPod (though it didn't work very well).

The iPod also has seemless playback, no pauses between tracks. This was only a recent firmware update so Zune isn't lagging so far behind here.

Other than these two things I think the Zune is just as good as the iPod. You get used to the non-clickwheel interface. It's nice to be able to change the volume without reaching into my pocket, I can push the button through the fabric.

I'm not sure where the animosity comes from. they are both good devices that serve their purposes very well. Enjoy yours, and don't feel the need to bash the other users.

[Andrew Mager @ Mar 29th 2007 2:26PM]

My Zune is terrible. It is impossible to shut off. Microsoft needs to concentrate all of their efforts on one thing: live.com.

[screenlooker @ Mar 29th 2007 7:13PM]

@ Andrew Mager
Hold down and the back arrow for 5 seconds to turn your Zune off. Try reading the manual.

[Nambo @ Mar 29th 2007 2:54PM]

Does this update add bookmarks or audible support? I think MS really messed up on the Zune. I'm selling mine and going back to Creative. MS really could have had a hit, but screwed up royally with this. Adding support for skype or MS's voice chat would have made up for a lot. The product managers for the Zune should all be fired.

[mike @ Mar 29th 2007 3:29PM]

got mine last friday. put it on ebay a couple days ago. awful software! makes the device a real ordeal.

[Daniel Kirk @ Mar 29th 2007 6:06PM]

For once, a fair article from Engadget on the Zune, iTroll infestation in the comments section notwithstanding.

Let's boil down the iTroll Zune-bashing mantra to its basic components:

1. It's too big!
2. It's too ugly!
3. It's too complicated!

But primarily:

4. It's too not-an-iPod!

Essentially, it's the frickin' Humvee to your little Honda Civic. Best run home and crawl under your beds if you're so afraid. Otherwise, stop being insecure, enjoy your own machine and let others enjoy theirs.

In re: the firmware update itself: Good. With the minor annoyances out of the way, the next one can address wishlist items like expanded codec support, podcasting and storage capability.

Also, let's throw a mute function for screaming neighborhood children in there. I freakin' hate kids.

[vic @ Mar 29th 2007 11:26PM]

mmmm Why do people keep thinking that all those bells and whistles are ever going to benefit you? I have an iPod video and I've never seen a video in it. its totaly useless to most people.. Same goes for the zune.. they play mp3's.. and they do it well.. Theyre essentialy the same thing, and don't tell me that the zune is better because it has some sort of wifi feature which in reality is just a huge marketing stunt that went sour when people realized that it was limited to absolutely nothing.. and dont tell me the iPod is better because of the click wheel.. its nothing revolutionary in todays world. Same damn thing people. Zune = iPod, and vice versa.

[dan @ Apr 4th 2007 6:43PM]

Wow. What a massive update. Good to see I made the right decision by selling my Zune and getting the 60GB ZV:M.

[Jeff @ Apr 5th 2007 12:02PM]

The Zune's interface takes full advantage of the color screen by placing heavy emphasis on album art completely throughout the device.

The iPod's interface takes advantage of the color screen by adding a splash of blue to the otherwise black and white navigation. Bor-ring. Yes, once a song is playing, a small image of the album art is available, and yes, if you select another screen, the art can be viewed full screen (at the expense of all other info), but the actual menus remain terribly far behind in terms of design.

I never thought I'd see the day when Microsoft busted out a nicer UI than Apple, but in the case of the Zune vs. the iPod they most certainly did, and did so in spades.

And, that - not the desktop software, not the wifi, not the fact I no longer have to treat my MP3 player with the same delicate care more appropriately reserved for an uncooked egg, not anything of that - the beautiful UI is why I sold both my iPods (4G and 5G) and bought a Zune.

Almost ironically, it was for album art that I sold my Nomad in the first place, and bought my first iPod. Now, If Apple wants my business back, give me CoverFlow on the iPod. Because in the mean time, you're getting slaughtered at (what, to me, was) your own game.

[St.Jimmy @ May 1st 2007 9:02PM]

I hate Micro$haft... but I love the zune. I might die without it. SO THERE