Microsoft seeking Japanese help to develop iPod killer

Microsoft seeking Japanese help to develop iPod killer

We have already seen so many products being developed and launched in the market touted as the Apple iPod killer. We have another one for the list.

Software giant Microsoft is teaming up with several Japanese companies to develop digital media players powered by Windows Media technology to take on the market leader and cult icon Apple iPod.

These companies would target the Japanese market first to gain a foothold in the market before aiming for the world markets.

Microsoft is teaming up with cellphone manufacturer NTT DoCoMo, Toshiba Cor and Napster Japan and others for these new players.

The company is rumored to be considering developing a player, which would also work as a mobile phone to make it easier for the consumer to carry few devices around.

We have already seen Motorola launching its ROKR range of mobile phones capable of storing and playing digital music to provide an alternative for carrying a mobile and a separate digital music player. Even Nokia has some N-Series mobile phones offering similar capabilities.

If these companies can capture the Japanese market it would give them a good chance to take on the Apple iPod in other markets around the world.