Zune Nation is excited about the Zune 4.2 Software update. What was labeled as a maintenance update has turned out to provide more than expected as many websites are reporting on new features and future possibilities that arise from this update. While it is not my goal to cite every article on the subject, I did try to get the originator. Overall, I wanted to give you a rundown of what has changed in this update as seen through the websites of Zune Nation. In no particular order, here is what we have:

Twitter user Christo27 asked about something we discussed in Episode 12 of our podcast. His question turned out to be answered. The colors for playlist tiles have changed in the software from a flat pink to a black gradient. Since the Zune HD did not receive a firmware update, tiles on the device remain pink. A few other Twitter users also confirmed this fact. Yes, the Zune Team does listen.

Over at Curelworld’s Lifestream, Josh has a post about the Zune software now supporting AVI video files. While the software may support the files, he notes they still need to be converted before viewing on a Zune device.

Long Zheng, of istartedsomething, has some interesting looking product IDs for devices listed as phones in the new Zune drivers that were released as part of today’s update. The other interesting part is the fact that vendor IDs point back to Microsoft. This second part is corroborated by ZD Net columnist Ed Bott via his Twitter account. Also, Paul Thurrott hopes to see the Zune service on Windows Phones sooner rather than later.

Not everything is rosy in Zune Nation as UK blog My Microsoft Life reports that some features previously available internationally have been removed, it seems like only features related to Zune’s online services got the axe.  Switching to a US locale fixes the issue. Site owner Michael Gillett remains optimistic that an international version of the Zune software is soon to be released.

The same blog as above, My Microsoft Life, reports that Zune 4.2 brings a new Windows 7 library into the picture, Podcasts. They also report that the Zune software now supports all other default Windows 7 libraries for media management. Zune Spring is also happy to see the arrival of native Libraries support to the Zune software. If you have media that is monitored in a Windows 7 library but not in your Zune software collection, be prepared for a potential influx of files.

Finally, Zune Team Member Thomas Mis has posted a helpful FAQ about Zune 4.2. It appears the FAQ is directed to those who are unable to re-download previously purchased content or are wondering why protected WMA tracks can no longer be played in the new software. While addressing some Xbox specific Zune Video-related questions, the FAQ hints at a future Xbox update to address some console-related preview and purchase scenarios. Most suggestions, recommend calling Zune or Xbox Support. Overall I would take a look at the FAQ to see if it applies to you.

So, we see that today brings more than just a maintenance update to the Zune platform. Personally, the new updates are welcome. What about you? Are you missing any previously purchased tracks? Are you stoked about AVI support in the Zune software? Tell us below.