Zune HD

Rob Greenlee (formerly) from Zune tells us that the Zune Marketplace isn't dead, and we talk about the future of Zune and podcasting in general.

UPDATE: Zune, as a brand, is now gone. But much of this information is still relevant, and the email address to get into the catalog has been updated to podcasts@microsoft.com.

Is Zune Marketplace dead?

Nanny Jenny from NannyCast responded to “Top Podcasting Directories and How to Get in Them.” She reports that Microsoft is killing Zune [possibly via The Verge].

This is an easily misunderstood news item. Microsoft has not made any announcements and the “news” is only conjecture based on observations. However, while “Zune” as a brand may disappear, it's unlikely that Microsoft would completely wipe the podcast directory to start over.

This is where Rob Greenlee from Zune comes in. He's a successful podcaster, podcast producer, and business manager for the Zune Podcasts Marketplace. We talk about Zune's existence in the Microsoft brand and some important feed information for podcasters.

Where is Zune going?

Zune was the #2 portable media player for a while.

Zune is more than a portable media device. Zune is now a platform strongly backed by the growing Windows Phone.

Microsoft is evolving Zune.

Zune Marketplace is already integrated with Windows 7, but we can't disclose its future with Windows 8.

Zune.net hosts the full podcast catalog for the Zune software.

Zune software runs on Windows and is like Microsoft's own “iTunes.” It's like a premium Windows Media Player. Download free from Zune.net.

Getting in the Zune podcast directory is easy

There are three ways you can submit your podcast to the Zune podcast directory.

  • Email your RSS feed to podcasts@microsoft.com for someone to add your podcast and reply with confirmation.
  • Submit online at Zune.net.
  • Submit through the Zune software.

Zune podcast directory actually pulls data from the iTunes tags first. So make sure you properly add ID3 tags!

If you need to change anything about your podcast (like the overall cover art) in the Zune podcast directory, email podcasts@microsoft.com.

You can generate your own ‘deep links” for Zune software users. But there doesn't seem to be much of a difference between the “Zune Marketplace” and “Zune Social” links. Perhaps exclusive functionality for Zune users.

Rob's perspective on podcasting's future

Podcasting will become more accessible for more people in more locations. GM recently announced Stitcher would be integrated into future car systems. Other car audio systems have offered USB plugs or auxiliary audio inputs.

Audio podcasting will always be around, especially for car listening, just like we're used to AM and FM radio.

Video podcasting is moving toward more large screens, like distribution on set-top boxes and console gaming devices.

Rob doesn't think all podcasters have to move into video. It's often quite unnecessary. There are advantages, like deeper engagement with an audience. But video also takes a lot more time to produce.

What podcasting formats are best for audio or video?

M4V H.264 baseline platform works on Zune as well as Apple and many other devices and platforms.

M4A is a bad direction to go for audio. If you're producing audio podcasts, stick with MP3.

Rob's podcasting setup

Podcasting tips from Rob

Watch your podcasting environment. Don't be around noise.

Record into a digital recorder if you can, otherwise, be aware of the power of your computer system.

Make sure your volume is even between podcast hosts.

Follow Rob Greenlee

I'm speaking in the Podcasting 101 track at BlogWorld NYC!

Please join me at BlogWorld in New York City on June 5–7. I'll be one of the panelists in the Podcasting 101 track and presenting on the last day of the conference.

Register for BlogWorld NYC for the early discount!

New podcasting poll: Is your podcast in the Zune Marketplace?

[poll id=”5″]

Ask your podcasting legal questions for upcoming guest

I'm very pleased to say that Gordon Firemark will be joining us for a few future episodes. He is an entertainment and new media Lawyer, and the author of the Podcast, Blog, and New Media Producers Legal Survival Guide. He also hosts the Entertainment Law Update podcast.

So send me your legal questions to ask Gordon in upcoming episodes.

  • Privacy policy
  • Release forms
  • Copyrights
  • Trademarks

Please retweet this post!

Use the social buttons or retweet the following.

Need personalized podcasting help?

I no longer offer one-on-one consulting outside of Podcasters' Society, but request a consultant here and I'll connect you with someone I trust to help you launch or improve your podcast.

Ask your questions or share your feedback

  • Comment on the shownotes
  • Leave a voicemail at (903) 231-2221
  • Email feedback@TheAudacitytoPodcast.com (audio files welcome)

Connect with me

Disclosure

This post may contain links to products or services with which I have an affiliate relationship and may receive compensation from your actions through such links. However, I don't let that corrupt my perspective and I don't recommend only affiliates.

About the Author
As an award-winning podcaster, Daniel J. Lewis gives you the guts and teaches you the tools to launch and improve your own podcasts for sharing your passions and finding success. Daniel creates resources for podcasters, such as the SEO for Podcasters and Zoom H6 for Podcasters courses, the Social Subscribe & Follow Icons plugin for WordPress, the My Podcast Reviews global-review aggregator, and the Podcasters' Society membership for podcasters. As a recognized authority and influencer in the podcasting industry, Daniel speaks on podcasting and hosts his own podcast about how to podcast. Daniel's other podcasts, a clean-comedy podcast, and the #1 unofficial podcast for ABC's hit drama Once Upon a Time, have also been nominated for multiple awards. Daniel and his son live near Cincinnati.
Subscribe
Notify of
guest

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

3 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
Keeper Dan
Keeper Dan
12 years ago

As far as the poll goes, mine should really be “It is now!”. Thanks for making the Zune situation clear. Now to look into this Stitcher thing and get into Blackberry’s listings…

Mike S
Mike S
11 years ago

Hi Daniel, for this post.

I needed rob’s email address to submit my new podcast.

Regards

Mike S ( http://availableforhire.com.au/thoughtsintoaction )

3
0
Would love your thoughts, please comment.x
()
x
50%
5/5

Enter your name and email address below to learn “7 Ways to Get More Podcast Reviews” FREE!

Almost there!

50%

See what Apple Podcasts and other popular podcast apps search with the Podcast SEO Cheat Sheet!

This form collects information we will use to send you podcasting-related updates with tips, offers, and news. We will not share or sell your personal information. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Almost there!

50%

Before you go! Don’t miss this FREE checklist, “20 things you should do before recording every podcast episode”!

This form collects information we will use to send you podcasting-related updates with tips, offers, and news. We will not share or sell your personal information. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Almost there!