Microsoft Zune revenue drops by $100 million
updated 01:15 pm EST, Fri January 23, 2009
MS loses $100M on Zune
Microsoft lost approximately $100 million in Zune revenue in its most recent quarter, filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission indicate. The number represents a 54 percent drop versus the same quarter in 2007, and is being attributed to low sales, in spite of the introduction of improved second-generation models. The division responsible for the player, Entertainment and Devices, brought in $151 million, but mainly on the back of PC and Xbox 360 sales.
It is thought that Microsoft may be trying to slowly phase out the Zune, which has always struggled to gain ground versus its main rival, the Apple iPod. CEO Steve Ballmer has de-emphasized the player in interviews, suggesting that its technology may be fused with Windows Mobile. As a part of its recent job cuts, the company is also believed to have taken harsh action in Entertainment and Devices, which may point to diminished support and/or development. [via Engadget]
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Apr 2001
Is it time?
Is it time for Microsoft to drop the Zune product? They should probably stick to platforms other people execute, as that sort of ecosystem seems to be their strong suit.
Also, axing the Zune should mean a brighter future for the XBox, one of their rare major hardware successes.