Content and services at the online Zune Marketplace will be accessible through personal computers, Xbox 360 videogame consoles, and Windows Phone 7 handsets, according to the US-based software colossus.<\/p>\n
“The integration between Zune, Windows Phone 7 and Xbox LIVE is an exciting expansion in our entertainment offerings,” said Craig Eisler, a corporate vice president at the Microsoft Interactive Entertainment Business Group.<\/p>\n
“Now, more people than ever will be able to enjoy the freedom and flexibility that the Zune service offers.”<\/p>\n
Zune software has been upgraded with new features and synchronized to work with smartphones running on Windows Phone 7 software to be released in October along with a slew of devices running on the platform.<\/p>\n
The update will let the new generation of Windows-powered smartphones mesh with the Zune Marketplace to compete with the synergistic pairing of Apple’s iPhone handsets and its iTunes online shop.<\/p>\n
Zune Marketplace boasts extensive collections of digital films and music that can be rented or purchased and then watched “on the screen of your choice.”<\/p>\n
The new software will be available by year’s end in more than 20 countries including France, Britain, Germany, Spain and Italy, according to Microsoft.<\/p>\n
Availability of video or music will vary depending on content distribution deals or restrictions in countries.<\/p>\n