Microsoft goes global with Zune as it readies Windows Phone 7 launch

As Microsoft Corp. (MSFT) prepares to finally launch its new Windows Phone 7 operating system it is expanding Zune, its digital media entertainment service, to more countries.
Zune version 4.7 is now available in more than 20 countries, including the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Germany and Spain.
The Redmond, Wash.-based giant also announced that Zune will be expanded to PCs and Xbox Live.
“The integration between Zune, Windows Phone 7 and Xbox LIVE is an exciting expansion in our entertainment offerings,” said Craig Eisler, corporate VP of the interactive entertainment business group at Microsoft. “Zune enables users to access the entertainment they want, wherever they want it — and now, more people than ever will be able to enjoy the freedom and flexibility that the Zune service offers.”
Of course, Windows Phone 7 very closely resembles the look and feel of Zune. When Microsoft formally unveiled its latest OS refresh last February, VP Joe Belfiore said “every Windows 7 phone will be a Zune.”
Microsoft is readying for perhaps its most significant mobile-centric launch to date with Windows Phone 7. Last week it released a software development kit (SDK) for mobile advertising on the new OS and the Microsoft Advertising Exchange for Mobile. Video walk-throughs of the new OS are also being leaked.
The wait for Microsoft’s latest mobile endeavor is definitely approaching an end. Over the weekend, The Wall Street Journal reported that Microsoft will launch three new Windows Phone 7-powered devices at AT&T Mobility next month.