Microsoft is looking for innovative ways to tie together the Microsoft Zune media player and phones that run the Windows Mobile operating system. The most popular concept among bloggers and mobile technology experts is to replace existing Windows Media software that is currently available as part of Windows Mobile with the Zune software. This would allow users of Windows Mobile phones and Zune to have one software to sync both devices. It would also eliminate the need to have a digital media library for both devices.

Another idea that was prosed would be to eliminate both types of software and replace it with one that is specially designed to run on both devices. Identical software would circumvent the problem that some users have with DRM tracks that were purchased for their Zune-- they can't play these tracks on their Windows Mobile phones.

In spite of Microsoft looking for ways to integrate the Microsoft Zune and the Windows Mobile experience, it is doubtful that Microsoft would introduce a Zune phone to compete with Apple's iPhone, which combines a cell phone with iPod functionality. Experts warn that such a move would put Microsoft in direct competition with the phone manufacturers that currently use the Windows Mobile operating system.

Microsoft has been looking for ways to integrate more multimedia capabilities into the Windows Mobile operating system in an attempt to appeal to consumers in addition to business users who currently enjoy the platform. Windows Mobile has ignored the consumer smartphone market while rivals have made significant inroads with Sidekicks and the Palm Centro.