Report: Microsoft Plans iPod Rival by Christmas

Microsoft (MSFT Quote) plans to release a portable digital media player by the holiday season this year that will rival Apple Computer's (AAPL Quote) iPod, according to published reports.

Unlike the iPod, Microsoft's player will incorporate a wireless radio that will allow users to download songs and videos directly without connecting to a computer, according to the reports.

To complement the new device, the company also is developing some new media software that could potentially integrate an online music store similar to how Apple's iTunes works, according to Reuters. To promote the device, Microsoft plans to spend "significant marketing dollars," Reuters reported. ...