SanDisk is taking Apple and its iPod head-on with its own portable video and MP3 player
called the Sansa View.
The flash-based Sansa View supports most popular media formats including MP3, protected and unprotected WMA, WAV, DRM-free MP3 downloads via embedded player functionality. In addition, a one-time software download of the Sansa Media Converter will quickly transcode numerous video files — including DivX.
A MP3 player at its core, the Sansa View is equipped with a backlit scroll wheel and 2.4-inch widescreen display that makes it easy to navigate to a music library, video collection, digital photos, digital FM radio with 20 pre-sets, an integrated microphone and voice recording, and Audible audiobooks.
The device supports many music download and subscription services, including Rhapsody To Go, Napster and eMusic, among others.
Expected to be available in October, the Sansa View will carry a suggested price of $199.99 for a 16GB flash-based player and $149.99 for the 8GB.
The Sansa View was first announced at CES in January. In June, SanDisk re-scoped the product to develop a player with different features and functionality.