Trying to compete with Apple’s line of portable media players (PMP) is like OJ trying to change public perception; it’s a losing battle. Well, Apple better start checking its shoulder because Microsoft has updated its Zune franchise with the Zune HD. Microsoft is really stepping up to the plate with Zune HD, offering a number of features not seen on the iPod touch—which we’ll get to in a moment. And while the Zune HD isn’t projected to hit shelves until the fall of 2009 and pricing has yet to be established, the Zune is expected to cut into Apple’s profits with a considerably more attractive price point.

Undressing the Zune HD

As soon as you unbox the Zune HD you’ll notice a solid PMP that feels extremely good in hand. The 3.3-inch 16:9 OLED display (a feature not found on the iPod touch) produces sharp and crisp images and text. The display is also a very responsive touchscreen with a noticeably quick accelerometer. While the Zune HD also offers HD radio and high-definition 720p video playback through the use of accessories (a dock and an HDTV), the biggest blow to Apple is this Zune’s integration with the xBox Live video marketplace.

The Zune HD also comes with Internet Explorer (with tap-to-zoom technology), which means you’ll not only have access to you favorite websites, but you’ll also have access to other Wi-Fi features like song sharing, channel streaming, and the Zune Marketplace). Beyond that, the Zune HD has everything you’d expect a PMP to have and the standard Zune stuff, such as podcasts, Zune Pass, games, and a photo viewer. Zune HD is available with either 16GB or 32GB.

It takes a lot to compete with Apple and its iPods, but it is certainly comforting to know that there are quality options at decent prices on the horizon.