ZuneZune, Microsoft’s 30GB digital media player is scheduled to be released to the U.S. on Nov. 14 2006 and is expected to be set at a retail price of $249.99 US each.

Here’s a snip-it of what Microsoft had to say for the release of Zune:
“On Nov. 14 we’re delivering not only a device, but a shared, social experience that will be shaped by the collective imagination of consumers,” said Chris Stephenson, general manager of global marketing for Zune. “We’re infusing the spirit of discovery and sharing into everything we do — from the experience we crafted around the device and service to pre-loading music and videos on every device to expose people to something new.”

Zune Feature Highlights
If you’re interested in purchasing one for the holidays, here are ‘right out of the box’ features you can expect from the Microsoft’s Zune digital media player.

• Sharing of media (Zune-to-Zune) through the use of wirless functionality.
• A bright three-inch LCD video screen display which functions in portrait or landscape mode.
• Ability to store and view Music, Pictures, Recordings, and Videos.
• A built-in FM tuner to listen to your favorite radiostations.
• And of course, available in three different colors; black, brown, and white.

In addition and as a great bonus feauture, each device will include a selection of preloaded content right out of the box. Such as; music, videos, images, and short films to help open the doors to discovering new and hot artists.

Just like the iTunes Store, Microsoft will have a Zune Marketplace where users are able to browse, discover, and purchase songs. You can also sign-up for a ‘Zune Pass’, which is basically a subscription that lets you access millions of songs, for a monthly rate of $14.95 US.

If you want a closer look at the Zune digital media player, here’s a link to view tons of great photos from the Official Microsoft site. Click here to view Photos of the Zune 30GB Media Player