Microsoft plans to launch a new version of its Zune portable media player later this year in the United States, incorporating high-definition video, touch screen technology and Wi-Fi connection.

Microsoft's answer to Apple's popular iPod digital music player, will also come with an Internet browser optimized for multitouch functionality and a built-in HD radio receiver and will offer access to Zune Marketplace online store. Zune will extend its video service to Xbox LIVE internationally this fall. Zune will occupy the first slot within the Xbox user interface in the Xbox LIVE Video Marketplace. At the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) next week, attendees will see firsthand how Zune integrates into Xbox LIVE.



The device will have a 16:9 widescreen format OLED display (480x272 resolution) and a touch screen interface that allows users to flip through music, movies and other content with ease.

An HD-compatible output lets Zune HD customers playback supported HD video files from the device through a premium high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) audiovisual docking station (sold separately) direct to an HD TV in 720p.