Since the 120gb Zune has been confirmed by Cesar as being in the works, now would be a good time to think about requests for future Zunes. It might be kind of late, but we've provided plenty of input so we can hope that these make it into the upcoming version's plans.

What do you want to see changed with Zune?

My biggest request is for a Zune to be available in the blue color that you see in the closest sidebar to this post. Kind of a aquamarine/teal color.

Microsoft has given the Zune team a green light when it comes to allowing them to customize Zunes for companies, events, etc. There have been several "branded" Zune 2 runs out there so far, including a Gizmodo branded Zune for their meet up on the snow earlier this year. Now it appears that the Zune Team has gone all political. Something I don't mix is politics and gadgets.

Microsoft's just slapped together a pair of special edition Zunes for both the Republican and the Democratic National Conventions and they look pretty damn great. The one for the DNC is awarded for the winner of the "Green Delegate Challenge", which is contest for delegations that "demonstrate the highest level of commitment to offsetting their carbon footprint from attending the Convention.".

Source: Gizmodo

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If you remember back in July 2008, Hansup Yoon sold ZuneBoards for $62,000 to crowdgather and is finally getting some media attention over it.  He could have possibly held out for more cash since monthly revenue generated from the site will increase with crowdgather advertising.  Well either way its good to be young and the proprietor of a marketing transaction.

Now for the million dollar project Hansup!

SANTA ANA, Calif. - Young entrepreneur Hansup Yoon, 15, recently sold his creation ZuneBoards, an Internet forum devoted to Microsoft's Zune media player, for $62,000.

The teenager, who lives in Fullerton, Calif., created the site months before Microsoft introduced its answer to Apple's iPod in 2006.

"It was the most perfect time to start a Web site about Zune, and I was one of the first few to create a Zune-related site," he said.

[Source: Boston Herald - Zune player forum makes teen a fortune]

       Well, it's official. Cesar Menendez himself has just confirmed the zune 120 to be real(if the FCC photo didn't quite satisfy you). However, not only has he confirmed that, but he's mentioned a bit more than just a new capacity, here's the message Jason Dunn received:

"You've probably all seen about 120GB @the FCC- and just wanted to send you a note to confirm that is indeed part of the plan. There's definitely more details coming in the way of new software and hardware, pricing etc." -Cesar Menendez

The good news is this sure keeps the hopes alive for a November 2008 release of Zune 3, and more updates for Zune 1-2 users. However, the question is, is 120 gig enough to compete with apples 160 gig classic?

So the buzz is HOT over a the possibility of a new Zune device which is has been passed around the FCC and looks like some type of metal apocalyptic homage to Terminator.  Since this is most likely a black Zune that was poorly photographed, let's use our imaginations for minute as we try to image what an unboxing for the new device would be like.

If your not a creative thinker then here is a video that will help you imagine the experience (recommended:  wash your hands after opening this box)

Enjoy!

[Source: Engadget - Samsung's extraordinary i900 Omnia]

Thanks to Zac Altman for the tip. He shared a post on I Started Something that shows that a 120gb Zune seems to have passed through the FCC's Doors. Of course this isn't released or even announced and is subject to change as it's not even official, but hey... Zune is moving on up.

Source - FCC

Cesar Menendez over at Zuneinsider has just announced a new audio and video podcast that is available in the marketplace for free. Here are the details:

Podcasting guru Rob Greenlee and I will be producing a weekly audio and video podcast, where we’ll cover everything Zune: software, devices, cool content in marketplace, accessories, events and more. Have a listen to the first episode by subscribing in Zune Marketplace, or you can just download the MP3 from here.

Here is the direct RSS feed link: http://zuneinsider.feeds.zune.net/rss

And of course, here's the deeplink to Zune Marketplace:

If you have ideas for topics to cover, or people to talk to, whether in the blog or in the podcast, drop a comment!

I already listened to the first episode, which is more an introduction to the podcaster's, and what the podcast will be, but it's good stuff. I'm excited to see what this podcast will bring, and I think it definitely has some potential.

If you haven't yet seen the most technologically inclined opening ceremony of this years Beijing Olympics.  It is available for download from the Zune Marketplace for 160 points, which is the equivalent of $2.00 US for all 52 minutes of awe-inspiring glory.  The opening ceremonies consisted of dramatic uses of technology and the over-population of China to its advantage which had no repeat performers on the floor.  With so many people performing in the shows I wondered if the streets of Beijing were empty outside the stadium.

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Vendor: Incipio

Price: $19.99 (4/8) 29.99 (80)

Just a few days ago I received a package from Incipio containing the new chrome and black  metal slider cases. I was quite excited for these cases, and  I'm happy to say they sure lived up to my expectations. I'm sure by the end of this review you'll see why I say that.

The metal case by Incipio is made of the finest quality, anodized aircraft-grade aluminum. Designed to hold your Zune securely in place, the Metal case features a removable vertical belt clip as well as a kickstand clip, allowing you to easily carry your Zune and watch your favorite movies anytime, anywhere. Backed by Incipio's Legendary Lifetime Warranty.
Features

• Made of high quality anodized aluminum.
• Protective EVA foam padding on all sides: holds your Zune securely in place, and helps protect against shock and collisions.
• Easy access to all buttons and features.
• Dual Clip - vertical clip and kickstand clip.
• Strong frontal shield protecting the device's display.
• Backed by Incipio's Lifetime Warranty.

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Just received an announcement from Zune.net regarding skins available for your Zune device saving 30% on purchases.  Adding some competition for skin makers such as Decal Girl who offer unlicensed skins for $6.99  while Skinit offers fully licensed art for $14.95 so dare to compare.

So here is something to cover your $88 pink Zune you just got from Newegg.com!

Visit SkinIt.com.