Let's face it: when you think of Microsoft, you probably think of two things: monopoly, and the accountant-looking, corporate line-towing guy from the "I'm a Mac" commercials. In other words, Microsoft does not exude the cool, chic, and open-minded vibe that Apple has so carefully and ironically developed. This goes beyond who has the largest market share for MP3 players; this is about image. This is about perception.

So, is Microsoft's image hurting the Zune?

In reading a recent article on the release candidate for Windows 7, the writer commented that some of the wallpaper artwork included was unusually artsy for Microsoft. Said wallpaper reminded me of artwork one would see in Zune-related advertising or as part of Zune Originals. And yes, it was cool, and different, and completely unlike Microsoft's image. Because their image, you know, sucks.

Really. Microsoft reeks of corporate monolithism. It reeks of uncool. And this doesn't go back to the days of Microsoft Bob, or the Office Paperclip, or Windows ME. Just look at the faces of the corporation. In the past, it was Bill Gates. And he can't help his demeanor or how he is; but Gates failed to achieve cool until he was about to retire and the company had a special retirement video for him. But now? Now we have Balmer. Who is Not. Cool. At least, not in a way Zune identifies with. Yes, he loves developers, and he is a great sales guy, and he is not the most humble of men... but Balmer is not going to ever match Steve Jobs' level and image of perceived cool. To the younger generation out there, he's that Uncle you don't want invited to your party, much less chill with and discuss music and pop culture, or even Kafka's The Trial.

That's part of what's unnerving about the Zune. The Zune concept, from device to artwork, is quirky and different, and yes, cool. In other words, it's completely unlike Microsoft. It's like a bunch of college fine arts graduates set up shop at the Redmond campus, tricked their way into getting on Microsoft's payroll, and started building the platform. I can almost imagine what it would be like when they were discovered:

STUFFY EXECUTIVE: What are you gentlemen doing here?

ZUNE DUDE: Hey bro. You're like, killin' our mojo here.

(A smoky haze dissipates and all the cool concept art becomes visible)

STUFFY EXECUTIVE: I think we can market that!

ZUNE DUDE #2: Whatever. Just let us keep our, you know, vision and integrity intact.

So, seriously... do you see Microsoft's name and image as hurting the Zune? Were you hesitant to purchase a Zune because it was made by Microsoft? As always, inquiring minds want to know.