Further research reveals that the so called zune phone may have been just a big misunderstanding. An in depth examination of the application with FCC reveals that Microsoft hasn’t propposed any sort of telephone device, but rather a device that is 802.11g (wireless internet) capable, as well as able to recieve digital television signals.
Here is what Russell Shaw from ZDNet had to say on this.
Alternatively, the multiple references in this document to “DTV channels 2-51″ could refer to a device that would use these frequencies for Wi-Fi if and when those frequencies are abandoned for television broadcast by 2009.
Why do I say this? Notice that the box-like device (Zune, perhaps) has a UHF antenna, as well as an 802.11g modem. Not anything that specifically would work with cell networks- but with Wi-Fi networks.
The 802.11g network processor and modem would point to be some WiFi capabilities indicated.
So once again, just to make things crystal clear. The “Zune Phone” is NOT coming, as previously reported by other tech giants, including Engadget. The whole thing was blown out of proportion when Microsoft filled with the FCC for some sort of wireless device. The Zune Phone is not coming out, at least not yet. I wouldn’t be surprised if we do see a Zune Phone from Microsoft someday though. As I mentioned in an article the other day, Microsoft will likely require a few models of the iPhone they can actually play with a and take apart before they can build their own device. So for now, no Zune Phone for you.
Technorati Tags: iPhone, Zune, 802.11g, FCC, Zune Phone, Microsoft
March 8th, 2009 at 2:31 pm
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