Death of the Zune Desktop software

Got your email on the "features" of the Zune desktop program? A laundry list of the things I will not be able to do. Microsoft better come up with a way for me to sync my Zunes, use my Zune passes, etc. Otherwise, big trouble ahead.

My phone is crippled here in Japan, but through PayPal, Xbox Points etc. I am able to enjoy my Zune passes. But I can7t sync anywhere except on my PC, and when I purchase with my Live ID, I better be able to play the content on my HD. Period.

Always waiting for something...

Well, the tension is building. On September 5th, it is expected that Microsoft and Nokia will be announcing Windows Phone 8 (Apollo) and 2 new Nokia WP8 devices. Hot on their heels, Samsung is bringing 2 WP8 phones to market and HTC (my current device) is announcing 3 new devices.

The question then for me (the most immediate) is when is Windows Phone 8 actually hitting the streets? There are a couple things to consider:

• The Zune client will not be used for Windows Phone 8. So, where is the replacement?
• Some say Windows Phone 8 and Windows 8 will be joined at the hip, so no connection until October 26?
• Where does all this leave those WP7.5 devices waiting for the WP7 "Refresh" (WP7.8)?

This is my most immediate question. There is little doubt I will be switching to WP8 sometime, but not until I get a good look at the contenders. I may decide it is in my interest to stick with the HTC line, though I have no real reason to do that, other than liking my Titan. HTC is no friend of Japan and Japan is ignoring the Windows Phone completely, by all accounts.