Microsoft's Zune HD

It seems like only yesterday that Apple Computers released the newest version of their iPod Nano digital music player, complete with built-in digital camera. Microsoft, in an attempt to not be outdone, announced that they would also be releasing a new version of their Zune digital music player, complete with high-definition radio and video capabilities. All that was left was to question just how well this new model would compete with the more popular iPod series, seeing as how the original failed to perform as expected.

Frankly, I don’t see the Zune HD being a threat to Apple’s dominance in the digital music market any time soon. While it is true that the Zune HD will be able to store and playback 720p high definition video, its requirement of an audio/visual docking unit (sold separately, of course) would create an inconvenience to those who simply wish to use the Zune HD as a standalone unit.

However, I could be wrong, seeing as how the Zune HD will also be compatible with Microsoft’s Xbox Live video-gaming community and a wide variety of music-sharing software applications, as opposed to the iPod’s proprietary attachment to Apple’s iTunes music software. Not only that, but the music player will also feature a FM radio tuner that is compatible with high-definition radio stations, giving them access to over 1,000 radio stations from around the world. A feature that, as of right now, the iPod line doesn’t feature (at least, not prominently).

So, my question to you is this:  which would you rather buy, an iPod Nano with a digital camera or a Zune HD? Which music player do you think will end 2009 as the “king of the castle”? Leave your opinions in the comments!