Microsoft is banking quite heavily on its newly-introduced Microsoft Zune HD, the high-definition edition of its Zune digital music player, not only for improving its rather dreary entertainment devices' sales; but also for salvaging its image among consumers, as well as challenging the Apple iPod!

However, whether Microsoft is 'in time' to hit the music device in a big way with its Zune HD, is what remains to be seen! More so as, close to Zune HD's September 15 launch date, Apple also has a new iPod Touch coming up, obviously with improved features!

Price-wise, Zune HD is fairly economically-priced than its comparative iPod Touch modesl - while the 16GB Zune HD model debuts at $219.99 and the 32GB model costs $289.99; the corresponding-storage iPod models are priced at $299 and $399 respectively.

The Wi-Fi-enabled Zune HD features a power-conserving OLED touch-screen; an efficient mobile processor; Internet browser; high-definition video output capability; and HD radio offering, which is an added plus from the iPod touch. The Zune HD battery delivers 24 hours of music and 4 hours of video, with Wi-Fi off.

While some analysts opine Zune HD may hit it right with consumers desiring a dedicated music device, others opine that Microsoft is somewhat late in introducing a 'good' device. Rumor-mills say Microsoft approached iPhone app developers for getting games and apps created for Zune HD!