Zune 3.0 software review
The Zune software is coming into its own, but it's still no iTunes-killer.
The Zune desktop software has historically been a necessary evil for Zune owners. The original version of the software released in 2006 was nothing more than Windows Media Player 11 with a fresh coat of paint and a built-in store. Then, the remodeled, stripped-down, and buggy Version 2.0 was unveiled in 2007, forcing CNET's Molly Wood to sever her ties with Zune.
The third time may be the charm for Microsoft. Version 3.0 of the Zune software shows some real promise as a stable and attractive multimedia jukebox.
There's still much work to be done before this PC-only software will hold any appeal beyond the Zune-owners of the world, but there are plenty of things the software gets right. To read my full account of the pros and cons of using the Zune software as your computer's media jukebox, click through to read the Zune 3.0 software review on CNET Reviews.
Donald Bell is CNET Reviews' senior editor for MP3 players and portable audio, and one half of the MP3 Insider blog and weekly podcast. He also likes getting his hands dirty with digital audio tools for musicians and DJs.
Donald Bell is an electronic musician, a veteran record store employee, and a fearless hardware hacker. He's also CNET's Senior Editor for MP3 and digital audio.
Jasmine France is CNET's resident digital audio doyenne, writing and editing product reviews, crave blogs, and feature stories on all things MP3. And if you need advice on headphones, she's your girl.
