On Tuesday, Microsoft shipped version 1.2 of its Zune client software, providing compatibility with Windows Vista and a slightly simpler installation process. When the Zune portable media player shipped last month, some reviewers complained that the initial public version of the product's software, version 1.1, didn't support Vista. However, with Vista not due for a consumer release until January 30, 2007, Microsoft had pledged to supply Vista support by that time. This update accomplishes that goal and presumably ends the pointless controversy.
With this update, Zune is now compatible with Windows XP Home Edition Service Pack 2 (SP2), XP Professional SP2, XP Tablet PC Edition 2005, XP Media Center Edition 2005, and all versions of Vista. Zune isn't compatible with the x64 version of XP or any versions of Windows Server 2003. Users who install the Zune software on Vista will also need to update the Zune firmware to version 1.2.
As I discussed in my Zunestory commentary ( http://www.itprotoday.com/article/showcase/zunestory.aspx ) earlier this month, Microsoft plans to ship several updates to its Zune player over time. For example, one of the pending updates will provide podcasting support.
For more information about Zune software and a free download, please visit the Zune Web site.
http://www.zune.net/en-us/meetzune/software.htm
