Microsoft ships Zune 3.0 update, announces Wi-Fi deal

As promised last week when it announced higher-capacity models, Microsoft has now made version 3.0 of its Zune software available for download. Similar to Apple’s recent iTunes update, this latest version focuses on music discovery, with new features such as Buy from FM, wireless access to the Zune Marketplace, and Microsoft’s own recommendation engine Mixview.

The new features will be available to every model of Microsoft Zune, not just the most recent ones. Also, as part of the launch, Microsoft has announced a deal with McDonald's that gives Zune owners free Wi-Fi access in any of the restaurant chain's locations equipped with the Internet hotspots – similar to what the iPhone gives you at Starbucks locations.

The revamped Zune software is available for download here, and you can get further details about what’s new here.