The Masochist's Institute of Technologyanecdotes of an ambitious MIT student

A week ago, I rode the Red Line all the way to the very last stop – Braintree, MA – to get a preview glimpse of Microsoft’s upcoming Zune HD, which will be released in September. And thankfully, they let me get some pictures of it!

The Microsoft representative had set up his table right in front of the main entrance. He had a large Samsung HD monitor, which can display the Zune’s screen in widescreen HD. He had a working 16gb device with him, along with empty cases of the 32gb model. There were also various pamphlets and cards for you to reserve your Zune HD. I didn’t reserve mine since I already have a perfectly working Zune 30gb (first generation), but I’ll admit after seeing the gorgeous interface, I was definitely tempted.

Here are close-ups of the devices. I am really impressed by the interface – it’s really simple but still maintains the Microsoft flair instead of trying to imitate the iPhone. The animations are really smooth, and the glowing effects make it very web 2.0. Plus, white-on-black is always a winner. The left model is the 32gb, while the right is the 16gb.

Here’s a closer look at the variety of pamphlets available. Note the really nice box – it’s a list of the Zune HD’s features, overlayed with a rainbow gradient. Very aesthetically pleasing, I must admit. I’m really excited for this release; I know my 11-year-old brother is already super psyched and is planning to request one for Christmas, haha. As for me, I think I’ll wait a few years before I replace my current Zune. The only downside is that they won’t be releasing a firmware update for the older Zunes alongside the Zune HD’s release, but hopefully in the future we old-school Zune users will also get the new, pretty interface =)

If you’re interested more about the technical specs, check out CNET’s hands-on.