A bit more on the Ibiza

Michael Gartenberg | November 21, 2007, 08:10 AM

David Card takes issue with my comments about the ibiza.

David, I Agree it's overpriced, and in fact, i pointed that out. As i mentioned, it's not even the cost of the device but the cost of the device plus Rhapsody which makes it even more expensive.

I don't think i "dissed" Zune. Judge for yourself here. I do think it's not differentiated enough. The WiFi isn't put to good use since I can't access the service directly on the device (wireless sync is not important, you know that from our research) and don't get me started on the whole crippled song sharing feature. Yes, it's prices like an iPod but for the same $$$ I can get double the capacity from SanDisk.

I was pretty clear that the Ibiza has a lot of rough edges and a price point that won't make it a real contender. What it does have are compelling features that differentiate it from other devices on the market that other players don't have.

1. Wireless Podcast sync directly on the device

2. Wireless use of Rhapsody and Rhapsody to Go (both of which make WiFi functional and useful)

3. Standard sync and charge over mini USB (so no proprietary cable or charger needed)

If Microsoft had incorporated these type of features in Zune along with their nice form factor and UI, and told the world about them, we might have seen a more interesting race this holiday season.

Actually, what would even be more interesting is a wireless device with EVDO like the Kindle for refreshing content and acquiring new stuff wherever I go. Think iPod Touch meets Kindle but with free EVDO enabled and services to go with it. Now that would be a contender.