Microsoft to port Zune HD apps to WP7

The persistent rumor that Microsoft is finished producing new Zune hardware received a boost today as Microsoft reported that it is working on porting existent Zune HD applications to its WP7 mobile line.

The news came out in the Zune Insider podcast. The following relevant clip was transcribed by Paul Thurrott:

The apps that we have built internally for Zune [HD], we’re actually looking at porting those over to Windows Phone. Right now, our focus for the app team is, more apps for Zune [HD]. Zune [HD] owners would like to hear that there’s more stuff coming. So that’s definitely the case.”

Of course, the “more stuff” mentioned is software, and not hardware. By porting Zune HD apps to the WP7 platform, Microsoft will help to cool any Zune HD fans that will be disappointment to see the physical Zune line end.

Previously, Bloomberg had reported that Microsoft intended to abandon Zune hardware and planned to instead focus on Zune as a software solution inside of Windows Phone, Xbox, and the PC. So far, Bloomberg has been borne out as correct, as no new Zune devices have been rumored, or mentioned. When the Zune hardware rumor first came to light, this was the Zune team’s reaction:

“We have nothing to announce about another Zune device – but most recently have introduced Zune HD to Canada via Zune Originals store and remain committed to supporting our devices in North America. We are thrilled by the consumer excitement for Zune across many new platforms, including Windows Phone 7 and Xbox 360. Our long-term strategy focuses on the strength of the entire Zune ecosystem across Microsoft platforms.”

Today’s news fits well with that sentiment, that the Zune ecosystem trumps physical, stand alone Zune devices, and that Zune’s future is a software solution. Of course, Microsoft could surprise us all with new Zune devices, but given their laser focus on Windows Phone, that does not appear likely.