Zune software

Zune software
Developer(s)Microsoft
Initial releaseNovember 14, 2006
Final release
4.08.2345 / August 22, 2011
Operating systemWindows XP SP3
Windows Vista SP2
Windows 7
Windows 8/8.1[1]
PredecessorWindows Mobile Device Center
SuccessorGroove Music
Microsoft Movies & TV
TypeUtility software
LicenseProprietary software
WebsiteZune software for your PC

Zune is a discontinued software program that was developed by Microsoft for Windows[1] that functions as a full media player, library, media streaming server,[2] mobile device management, and interface for the discontinued Zune Marketplace. The software is used to sync with all devices with Zune functionality including the Zune 4, 8, 16, 30, 80, 120, Zune HD, Windows Phone 7, and Microsoft Kin. Zune devices work exclusively with the Zune software, which applies many design principles of Microsoft's Metro design language.

Following the discontinuation of Zune hardware in 2011,[3] the software program was put into maintenance mode. In October 2012 its replacements products were launched: the new phone companion app is used for syncing with devices running Windows Phone 8 (including 8.1) and Windows 10 Mobile,[4] while Xbox Music (later known as Groove Music) and Microsoft Movies & TV were launched to fill Zune's role as a media player and streamer.[5][6] Zune online services were completely shut down on November 15, 2015.[7]

  1. ^ a b Thurrott, Paul (June 11, 2012). "Windows 8 Tip: Syncing a Windows Phone or Zune Device". SuperSite for Windows. Penton. Retrieved March 17, 2013.
  2. ^ "Media Sharing FAQ". Zune. Microsoft. Archived from the original on April 12, 2008. Retrieved November 21, 2008.
  3. ^ "Microsoft Zune Discontinued Amidst Falling Demand". Hypebot. 2011-03-15. Retrieved 2023-10-18.
  4. ^ Byford, Sam (2012-10-29). "Microsoft releases Windows Phone 8 syncing app for Windows 8 and RT". The Verge. Retrieved 2023-10-18.
  5. ^ Gilbert, Ben (October 15, 2012). "With the launch of Xbox Music, Zune is truly no more". Engadget. AOL.
  6. ^ Peckham, Matt (2012-10-16). "Can Microsoft's New Xbox Music Service Do What Zune Couldn't?". Time. ISSN 0040-781X. Retrieved 2023-10-18.
  7. ^ "Zune retirement FAQ". Support. Microsoft. October 20, 2015. Archived from the original on November 22, 2015.