Andy Ihnatko used to write for Macworld magazine, so he definitely leans in Apple’s direction. But it’s still worth reading, if only to learn about what you may be in for if you buy a Zune. Here are some of the points that stood out for me:

1. It supposedly doesn’t support podcasts. Well, recently that’s been my primary use of my iPod so if that’s true, Zune really blows.
2. The Zune Marketplace takes Zune Points. Meaning, you have to convert your dollars into points. To start off, there’s a $5 minimum. I don’t get this at all. It only makes sense from the business end (more money) but for the consumer it’s a barrier to purchasing anything.
3. WiFi can’t be used to transfer files from a PC. Seems like a no-brainer to me.

Ihnatko is very down on the Zune and thinks it will be toast in six months. I’m much more generous. If Microsoft really wants Zune to take off, they can make it happen. Note that all of the above are software issues (or a firmware update). People once dissed the XBOX. Microsoft if anything, can be tenacious and continuously upgrade and improve their products. Then two or three years down the road, they create something utilitarian enough that succeeds.

But at this point, it looks like Microsoft is playing nice with the music companies that insist on strong DRM at the expense of what the consumers want. Compromise is the best way, and it looks like the iPod is still the best MP3 device that is hitting that sweet spot between shackle-like DRM and a product people will actually buy.

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