My Zune just died. Is there a way I can change my music that I bought in the Zune Marketplace into iPhone compatible files or whatever?
Has similar problems frustrated you too? As of 2011, Apple's iPod was the best selling personal MP3 player of all time, but many Microsoft Zune owners would argue that it's not the best performing machine. But even those Zune owners concede that Apple's iTunes software is the better platform to use when they're listening to their collections on theircomputers. It is possible, however, for Zune owners to use iTunes software to play their "Zunes." All you have to do is transfer your music collection from the Zune folder on your computer to your iTunes library. Unlike the iPod, which functions on both Macs and PCs, the Zune is only intended to work with the Windows operating system. However, there are software workarounds for individuals intent on using a Zune device on a Mac computer. Learn how to use a Zune on a Mac to access your Zune songs without using a PC.
Step 1:
Check that the Zune MP3 player has a fully charged battery. A Zune with a low charge may shut off during the integration and installation process, creating errors for the individual attempting to use a Zune on a Mac.
Step 2:
Install Parallels or VMWare Fusion onto your Mac. These two programs create a simulated software environment for installing the Windows operating system on Mac computer hardware. Compare Parallels and Fusion, and choose the program that best fits your needs. Installing a Zune on a Mac only requires the basic, preliminary features available on both programs. Insert the respective software's installation disk into the Mac's CD-ROM drive and follow the on-screen prompts to install the emulators. Both programs may be purchased at your local computer store or online on Amazon (links in the Resources section).
Step 3:
Wait for the emulator to finish installing. Depending on the speed of your Mac's processor, this may take several minutes. Upon completion, follow the on-screen prompts to install Windows using the Windows installer disks. Both Parallels and Fusion include automated guides to install the entire Windows operating system on the Mac in one integrated process.
Step 4:
Restart the Mac to clear its system cache.
Launch the emulator software to open and run the Windows operating system on the Mac. Open Internet Explorer within the emulator screen and download the Zune software from Microsoft's official Zune website (link in the Resources section) into the emulator software. The Microsoft website will treat you like a PC user and allow you to download the program.
Step 5:
Double-click the downloaded installer file to install the Zune software. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation. During the installation process, you will be given a chance to create a Zune account with which you may access the Zune music store and the Zune message boards. If you already have a Zune account, or don't want one, skip this step.
Step 6:
Connect the Zune device to the Mac computer using the original Zune USB connector cables. The Windows emulator will automatically detect the new hardware. Open the Zune software in the emulator to access the Zune device. Wait for the software to check the Microsoft website for any Zune firmware updates. If it asks for permission to install software updates, click the "Agree" button.
Step 7:
Sync the Zune with the Mac to transfer all relevant music, video and photo files between the device and the computer. If this is your first time using the Zune, check the Zune's sync options to ensure that it is transferring only the files that you want it to transfer. Click "Settings" in the top menu bar and select "Device" from the drop-down menu. Click "Sync Options" in the dialog box to manage what files the Zune syncs.
