Well, it's official. Cesar Menendez himself has just confirmed the zune 120 to be real(if the FCC photo didn't quite satisfy you). However, not only has he confirmed that, but he's mentioned a bit more than just a new capacity, here's the message Jason Dunn received:

"You've probably all seen about 120GB @the FCC- and just wanted to send you a note to confirm that is indeed part of the plan. There's definitely more details coming in the way of new software and hardware, pricing etc." -Cesar Menendez

The good news is this sure keeps the hopes alive for a November 2008 release of Zune 3, and more updates for Zune 1-2 users. However, the question is, is 120 gig enough to compete with apples 160 gig classic?

So the buzz is HOT over a the possibility of a new Zune device which is has been passed around the FCC and looks like some type of metal apocalyptic homage to Terminator.  Since this is most likely a black Zune that was poorly photographed, let's use our imaginations for minute as we try to image what an unboxing for the new device would be like.

If your not a creative thinker then here is a video that will help you imagine the experience (recommended:  wash your hands after opening this box)

Enjoy!

[Source: Engadget - Samsung's extraordinary i900 Omnia]

Cesar Menendez over at Zuneinsider has just announced a new audio and video podcast that is available in the marketplace for free. Here are the details:

Podcasting guru Rob Greenlee and I will be producing a weekly audio and video podcast, where we’ll cover everything Zune: software, devices, cool content in marketplace, accessories, events and more. Have a listen to the first episode by subscribing in Zune Marketplace, or you can just download the MP3 from here.

Here is the direct RSS feed link: http://zuneinsider.feeds.zune.net/rss

And of course, here's the deeplink to Zune Marketplace:

If you have ideas for topics to cover, or people to talk to, whether in the blog or in the podcast, drop a comment!

I already listened to the first episode, which is more an introduction to the podcaster's, and what the podcast will be, but it's good stuff. I'm excited to see what this podcast will bring, and I think it definitely has some potential.

I have been busily configuring servers for my office in preparation for long overdue changes.  Mainly using an Exchange Server instead of the current POP Mail server that is a pain to configure and has many problems including poor SPAM filtering.

Configuring has been a breeze although I was nervous about the whole Exchange Shell and I felt it was time to setup Outlook Web Access for users that may require external mail access while away from the office.  I love to look at all the detailed options, especially since I wanted to see what the difference between Exchange Server 2003 and 2007 had to offer.  I came across custom themes for the external users and was surprised to see a Zune theme and wanted to share it with you.  There are also additional themes like XBox, Carbon Black and the default Seattle Sky.

Odd but completely cool!  I guess you already know what my theme will be set to.

The Internet wires are still buzzing over the Zune Guys upset over the Microsoft Zune.  I understand where he's coming from and have to agree, they updates have been very few and a long wait.  And some of the updates have even been a step backwards in the Zune development, for example when they stopped using the Windows Media Player as the backbone.  I hate to do a comparison but the Playstation 3 has had its updates, new developments and new features come out almost every two months.  Is the Zune Team so short handed that they can't push out more timely updates?

I don't know but I would love for a Microsoft official to please just explain themselves, stop keeping things so hush hush, make friends not enemies and possibly even patch up whatever is upsetting Steven Smith a.k.a the Zune Guy.

As strong supporters of the Zune, Microsoft owes us that much.  We are the life blood that keep this product going the way it does.  Most people haven't purchased a Zune until they have come across the forums, seen reviews, spoke to other owners or see what problems they may encounter.  So its understandable when we don't get what we want and feel helpless about it.  Let me know your thoughts, leave a comment...

Vendor: Incipio

Price: $24.99

This review is for Incipio's kickstand case, in black leather.

The Incipio KickStand Case is a compact case that provides easy access to your Zune at all times. The case is elegant, slim, and made of premium top-grain leather. The durable construction offers long-lasting protection for your Zune and is backed by Incipio's legendary lifetime warranty.

Features

• Kickstand folio design allows you to watch your videos while the case holds your device.
• Made of high-quality, premium top-grain leather.
• Suede lining on the inside.
• Clear shield protecting the screen
• Easy access to all buttons and features.
• Backed by Incipio's lifetime warranty

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Vendor: Incipio

Price: $24.99

This review if for Incipio's Zune 80 wallet case, in caramel leather.

The Incipio Wallet is a snug fitting quality leather case with a suede insert.  It can fit a few cards such as your drivers license, credit card and some cash.  The stitching encompasses the entire case adding to the overall presentation.

Features

• Quality leather and suede.
• Designed to allow access to all controls and inputs.
• Compact design to easily fit in pocket or purse.
• Protects well against damage or scratches.
• Backed by Incipio's Legendary Lifetime Warrant

Incipio Wallet Video Review

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Jessica at Zune Insider is soliciting feedback on the Award system. I don't even know if I have any badges. You know why? Cause I don't need no stinking badges, but you might. Take a moment to answer the poll to help Jessica out.

As I look to expand the system, I’m considering a number of things.

Should there be a maximum number of available badges? Or should we create badges as ideas occur to us, constantly expanding the ecosystem?

Should there be other rewards that go along with badges? Maybe we could get an artist to provide a special download to everyone who has earned a Gold Power Listener badge for that artist. Would that be cool?

Are we going to try to change users’ behavior, or just reflect it? If we try to change it, in what ways are appropriate to maintain a healthy community, and will users try to game the system to get a badge or reward?

Thanks. Head over to Zune Insider too.

www.DarkZune.com joins the celebration as it, like Zunited(even if it is just 1/2 year) and Zunerama,  is celebrating it's anniversary. To celebrate they're first full year many contests/giveaway's have been put into action, and more will come soon.  So head over to the DarkZune forums to take a chance at scoring one of numerous zune 4/8 cases, or download newly added sets of wallpapers for your zune.

However, they're anniversary is not the only big news. DarkZune has announced their work on an all new pokemon game for zune. Even though this may not interest the older generations, this could be big for the younger zuners. Pokemon is quite popular, and if this game is completed, and released, it could draw quite a few people to zune.  This is not in fact a remake of any previous game, the staff makes it clear that it's an all new game. What we've seen so far looks promising, just hope they can keep up the work to get this would be massive XNA project completed.

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