Apple’s iPod with the Zune media player

November 14, 2006  Just another page in the tech history book.

Microsoft took a swing at Apple’s iPod with the Zune media player, hoping it would be the ultimate “iPod-killer.” Spoiler alert: it wasn’t. Microsoft pulled the plug on the Zune less than five years later. It’s like trying to outshine a supernova with a flashlight—nice effort, but you’re outshone. The Zune’s fizzle-out was a peek into Microsoft’s tech troubles. When Apple rolled out the iPhone and iPad, it was lights out for Microsoft’s PC Era ambitions. Better luck next time, Zune.