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Zune Pass subscribers get to keep 10 songs. Wow, this is pretty darn good really. Think about it: @ $1 x 10 songs, you’re getting $10 free per month like the article says, so you’re only paying $5 for the subscription. Not a bad deal, even though I use an iPod myself. =)

Microsoft warns of another update to Windows Update. What caught my eye on this one? “This update makes it possible for users to install more than 80 updates at the same time.”

Uh-huh, sure — if it’s true, though, I’ll be a happy nerd. My home broadband connection will finally get some use. =)

Our good friends at Ars Technica have an article posted about the iTunes 8.0 launch which has now been ‘confirmed’ to be this Tuesday (Sept 9th). There are different features rumored to be included, yet another Ars Technica article, that range from Pandora-type functionality to HD content for TV shows.

That’s nice and all, but how about a all-you-can-eat subscription? I’ll be frank, the only reason I’m the owner of a Zune instead of an iPod is because ol Gates has a $14.99 (almost) all-you-can-download per month plan and senior Jobs does not. The Zune will probably be a great device some day with a lot of support, but let’s be serious: for any Zune accessory you find online or in a physical store, there are 100 iPhone accessories right next to it for half the price. Plus, after having problems with my third (yes, third) Zune from all of the replacements under warrenty, I’m starting to wonder if it’s worth it. I’ll be damned if I have to pay a buck per song, but a buffett subscription? Oh yes, I’ll come to the dark side for that, yes indeed….

Update: Maybe I’m not on crack after all! A lil’ Google lovin’ shows that a subscription based iTunes service has been rumored for well over a year. There is even a Wired article, link here, from just a week or so ago about said possibility. NICE!

Apple’s ads about the PC versus the Mac are pretty well known, viewable on Apple’s site and populated all over YouTube. I’m not an Apple ‘fanboy’ but I have to admit that their ads are funny as ever, and I don’t even own a Mac. These ads have gone unanswered by Microsoft for a long time, until now. That’s right, Microsoft has finally launched their ad campain with a well known comedian as their spokesperson. Who?

Jerry Seinfeld! So, these have to be funny and a great answer to the Apple ads, right? NO! This commercial, frankly, sucks. Check out the video for yourself on YouTube and tell me what you think. In my opinion, if they continue with this line of pointless ads then it’s a complete waste of their $10 million dollar investment to get Jerry Seinfeld for these commercials. What are your thoughts?

The “Mojave Experiment” is part of Microsoft’s marketing campaign that is geared towards changing the preconceived notion that Vista is crap. Good luck! (They’ll need it!). Not a bad idea on their part, I must give credit, but it’s a bit too late in my opinion. Vista has been out for, what, almost two years now? Even if this marketing is successful, by the time it reaches full market saturation it’ll be time for the next new OS by Microsoft.

Ah, Microsoft — the lack of marketing (prior to this) surrounding Vista in conjunction with a lack of response to Apple’s ‘PC’ commercials have really given Vista a negative impression. The key word here is “impression”; there are so many people who have said “OMG Vista is crap” and have never used it. If someone actually tries something and does not like it, then hey, they don’t like it but they tried it and can form an opinion. On the other hand, how can someone form an opinion about something they have never tried? Answer: they can’t!

There are some blogs that are comparing this with the Milgram experiment…WOW! That’s a bit of a stretch: comparing Microsoft’s marketing campaign with a Yale psychological experiment that “measured the willingness of study participants to obey an authority figure”. Are you serious? If Apple did this, it would be the next ‘big thing’ in marketing people for one OS over another, but with Microsoft it means they are just out of control. (Insert sarcasm here).

What do you think?

Yet another release from Microsoft: SQL Server 2008, the latest and greatest for all of your database needs. While I’m a big fan of Windows Server 08, if not just for tinkering around, I can’t say that the Enterprise and big business partners will be as eager as I am. Why not?

It’s the same reason that most large businesses and enterprise environments don’t have ‘Auto Updates’ enabled for patching. Intead, it’s a controlled internal process that allows for testing before it’s pushed to the entire business. This keeps those accidental problems from occurring when an unknown conflict or issue occurs because of a patch.

The same holds true for new operating systems and services that are used in very large, controlled environments. Things are usually tested and validated before being deployed, and in many cases (such as with XP -> Vista) unless the update does not until the next hardware update. Not that I can blame them, why would a business take the time to test and verify such critical database information when it’s currently working just fine?

What are your thoughts?

This version of SQL Server provides powerful new capabilities such as support for policy-based management, auditing, large-scale data warehousing, geospatial data, and advanced reporting and analysis services. SQL Server 2008 provides the trusted, productive and intelligent platform necessary for business-critical applications.

Not exactly the most exciting thing happening this week, but it’s worth noting. Microsoft’s Silverlight plug-in is an alternative for embedding rich media content, sort of like Adobe’s Flash plug-in. Their latest version, Silverlight 2, is being used by the well known ‘advertising’ company DoubleClick as a medium to inject advertising within a video.

So, in conjunction with Flash, Windows Media and Realplayer you can now expect overly loud advertisements on some popular Silverlight 2 enabled sites. This includes NBC’s coverage of the Olympics, which is claimed to be well over 2.5k hours worth of video, which will be interruped by these ads.

Like it or not, I suppose intrusive advertisements are not going anywhere soon, even for video streams…

Our good friends at Microsoft announced a reorganization for their PSD (Platform & Services Division) group that will effectively split them into two separate groups. One group to handle the Windows OS and another for Windows Live/Online Services.

Paul Thurrott will be pleased, as he has been talking about this very same thing for years, except that he was referring to a further level of separation: consumer versions of the Windows OS as a separate company versus the business versions, which actually makes sense. At the risk of duplicating what Paul has already said, there are very distinct differences between what a business needs and a consumer needs in terms of an operating system.

Let’s set aside the flame war between the anti-Microsoft and anti-Apple camps for a moment and just speak generically regarding this concept. For most of you home users, they are not going to need the ability to add their computer to a domain or push enterprise-level management policies to thousands of machines. On the other hand, your enterprise/business needs don’t usually include low-end movie editing or gaming. These groups are simply two very different animals, but the OS rarely reflects these differences.

Overall, let’s hope this is a step in the right direction regarding Microsoft’s future plans for the segration (and eventual fine tuning) of their different branches of influence. With each division focusing on a more grainular scope, they can push the product further without worrying about their changes affecting other divisions. It’s like the difference between using a shotgun to kill an ant versus simply stepping on it with your shoe; both are effective, but only one is efficient.

Just a quick blurb, but this is flippin’ cool! I’m not a console gamer myself, but I may get one just for this feature. =)

Microsoft announced a partnership today with Netflix to stream movies and TV to your Xbox 360 using Xbox Live. How cool is that? Now, no fanboy name calling here, but you have GOT to be excited about that, come on! According to the release, there are like 10k+ movies and shows to choose from. LOVE IT! I was considering a Netflix or Blockbuster mail-based rental account, but not anymore when I can just stream them over Xbox Live. This should launch this fall, so stay tuned!!

The only one ‘gotcha’ that I’m not seeing in the release: 1) How much? Is it going to be a free-for-all like the Zune (which, again, I LOVE) or a pay-per? If it’s a pay-per, I think I’ll pass…sorry Microsoft! =(

Fellow gamers, rejoice! (If you’re not a console gamer, better luck next time)

There were a wide array of games launched today at the E3 Media and Business Summit hosted in Los Angeles today, including some highly popular games like Final Fantasy XIII and Rock Band 2 . The theme, based on Microsoft’s press release , was touting how many different game types were (and would be) available for every different type of gamer. I have to admit, I never thought I would see a high-end MMORPG like FFXIII on any flavor of Xbox; and yet, here it is.

Microsoft is also pushing their ‘live’ feature (again) with something called "Xbox LIVE Primetime" which, and I quote, "is a place where content is always fresh; play is global, live and massively multiplayer; and prizes are plentiful." Now, it’s been awhile since I have played on Xbox Live but didn’t that already exist, minus the fresh part? I remember playing other people on Halo 1 and 2, and there were a few other FPS games…but wait…did they say MMORPG? Oooooo so can we expect to engage cross-platform with other players on games such as FFXII? Granted, the FFXI line has been available for years on the PlayStation , but it’s be nice to see something fresh about it (like cross-platform gameplay) when it arrives on the 360.

The Rock Band 2 part of this announcement is pretty cool, even thought I’m not a fan (no pun intended…no, really I promise…). I’ve played the first one and Guitar Hero, so I’m the new release here will be popular as well, but you won’t catch me wetting my self over it. ::shrug::

By the way, there is a whole crap-ton of games they’ll be launching (or have launched) based on this announcement. I don’t want to go over each one, so here’s the full list for your gaming enjoyment. =)

•	“Final Fantasy XIII” (Square Enix). “Final Fantasy XIII” is the eagerly anticipated title from Square Enix that takes full advantage of the superior power and technology in Xbox 360, providing tangible, intuitive controls while delivering seamless transitions between real-time gameplay and stunning in-game cinematics. Using the latest in cutting-edge technology, this latest addition to the “Final Fantasy” series is worthy of the title “next generation.”
•	“Galaga Legions” (NAMCO BANDAI Games). The arcade shooter “Galaga” has captivated players all over the world, and now the legend lives on with “Galaga Legions.” Featuring table-turning game dynamics, updated graphics and vast waves of ferocious enemies, “Galaga Legions” was created by the same team that developed the best-selling “PAC-MAN Championship Edition” for Xbox LIVE Arcade. “Galaga Legions” will debut exclusively on Xbox LIVE Arcade in 2008.
•	“Geometry Wars: Retro Evolved 2” (Bizarre Creations Ltd./Activision). The latest version of the frenetic retro shooter, “Geometry Wars: Retro Evolved 2” debuts exclusively on Xbox LIVE Arcade in 2008. Newcomers and pros alike will be blown away by the screen-melting intensity and insane new features, including six action-packed gameplay modes, new enemies, scoring strategies and a diverse list of exciting Achievements. “Geometry Wars: Retro Evolved 2” also supports multiplayer mayhem for up to four players, with versus or co-op modes, and features razor-sharp 1080p graphics and new, pulse-pounding music.
•	“Portal™: Still Alive” (Valve/Microsoft). “Portal: Still Alive” features the full award-winning “Portal” single-player game from Valve plus a new challenge mode. Designed to change the way players approach, manipulate and surmise the possibilities in any given environment, “Portal” has earned more than 70 industry honors for its innovative gameplay, with more than 30 Game of the Year Awards. Solve physical puzzles and challenges by opening portals to maneuvering objects, and yourself, through space. The game is debuting on Xbox LIVE Arcade in 2008.
•	“South Park” (South Park Digital Studios/Doublesix/Microsoft). Based on the Emmy- and Peabody-award winning show, a “South Park” game (title TBA) is coming exclusively to Xbox LIVE Arcade in 2009.
•	“Fable II” (Lionhead Studios/Microsoft Game Studios). This Xbox 360 exclusive action role-playing game offers players an epic storyline and an unprecedented level of freedom and choice. Every decision defines who the player becomes and influences the evolving world around them. “Fable II” is the next great step for the genre, with an innovative dynamic cooperative mode, where players can choose to invite a friend on the same couch or over Xbox LIVE to experience the world together.** The journey begins in August with a first-of-its-kind exclusive Xbox LIVE Arcade title, which allows players to get a head start on earning gold that will transfer to the rich world of “Fable II” when it arrives at stores in October.
•	“Gears of War 2” (Epic Games/Microsoft Game Studios). Epic Games’ design director Cliff Bleszinski gave a stunning new look at the “Gears of War 2” campaign, and confirmed the ability to ride the fearsome Brumak. Also detailed was the all-new five-player cooperative mode “Horde,” where players unite to battle a seemingly endless onslaught of Locust Horde forces.** “Gears of War 2” is the most anticipated Xbox 360 exclusive title this holiday season and will be released worldwide Nov. 7.
•	“Grand Theft Auto IV” (Rockstar North/Rockstar Games). Continuing its blistering pace on the Xbox 360 platform, the first of the Xbox 360 exclusive downloadable episodes for this record-breaking game will be available this fall — the only console with new “Grand Theft Auto IV” content available this holiday season.
•	“Halo Wars” (Ensemble Studios/Microsoft Game Studios). Microsoft is further expanding the “Halo” universe with “Halo Wars,” the blockbuster strategy game designed exclusively for the Xbox 360. A piece of the “Halo Wars” story is revealed through “Five Long Years,” a trailer from Ensemble Studios and Microsoft, which showcases the brutal struggle for control of Harvest early in the Human-Covenant wars. “Halo Wars” will put gamers in command of the entire battlefield, leading both UNSC and Covenant forces.
•	“Infinite Undiscovery™” (Square Enix). “Infinite Undiscovery” is the newest fantasy role-playing console game from Square Enix, drawing gamers into a real-time world woven of countless threads where player choices spin untold discoveries — only on Xbox 360. Players will be confronted with a variety of dramatic situational battles, such as executing a daring escape while a gigantic ogre follows in hot pursuit, or waging battle amid towering tidal waves. Dynamic environments change and respond in real time, creating an entirely new experience never before seen in the genre. The title is scheduled to release exclusively on Xbox 360 in North America on Sept. 2, 2008.
•	“The Last Remnant™” (Square Enix). “The Last Remnant” is a new role-playing game crafted using the finest artistry and technology Square Enix has to offer. Set in a fantasy world, war-torn and scarred by years of conflict, gameplay revolves around mysterious artifacts — Remnants — that possess magic powers. Groundbreaking graphics possible only on Xbox 360 bring the intensity to a whole new level. “The Last Remnant” is launching worldwide on November 20 and will be available only on Xbox 360.
•	“Resident Evil 5” (Capcom). Destined to bring new fans to the series, “Resident Evil 5” is the sequel to one of the highest-rated video games in history (according to Metacritic.com and Gamerankings.com). Promising to revolutionize the series by delivering an unbelievable level of detail, realism and control, “Resident Evil 5” unleashes an unprecedented level of fear for the next generation. New technology developed specifically for the game, as well as incredible changes to both the gameplay and the “Resident Evil” world, will make this a must-have game for gamers across the globe.
•	“STAR OCEAN®: The Last Hope™” (Square Enix). “STAR OCEAN: The Last Hope” is the long-awaited continuation of the celebrated science fiction and fantasy role-playing game series. Slated for release on Xbox 360 in spring 2009 and published by Square Enix, this prequel set during the aftermath of World War III combines science fiction and fantasy elements spanning multiple planets and the vastness of space itself to recount the origins of the STAR OCEAN universe. Exhilarating combat expands upon the franchise’s famous real-time battle system, introducing the amazing graphics and visual effects possible only on Xbox 360.
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“Too Human” (Silicon Knights/Microsoft Game Studios). “Too Human” is an epic action game with integrated role-playing game elements, and will be available in North America on Aug. 19 and in Europe on Aug. 29. The game features a rich storyline with deep character development, both hallmarks of Silicon Knights’ legendary tradition of video game development.