Even tough the battery performance improved after the November 13th update, some users notably zune 30/80 GB users were complaining of battery drain when they suspend their zune hard drives by holding down the play/pause button.

Well there is a good news from Cesar the recent 2.3 firmware update puts an end to this problem and also provides some performance improvements like

Improved device recognition

(and)

Improved stability and reliability on sync (both wirelessly and while connected to a PC).

Hopefully after this update we will not hear any more issues related to batteries.

Memorex, one of the leading brands of optical media, today announced a series of cases for the zune player. Models currently available are Silicon Sleeve, Sport Band and Leather Show Case with suggested retail price of $19.99, $29.99 and $29.99 respectively.These cases provide added protection, as well as access to all ports.

The Silicon Sleeve case is a custom fit and made of durable silicon material with anti-dust coating and screen protector to safeguard your device from scratches and debris. It also includes an adjustable armband, providing hands-free probability.

Yes, the much hyped high-end speaker from VAF is now available for sale at Amazon. It is one of the most expensive hi-fi home entertainment systems for zune.

Octavio 1 plays music and videos directly from a zune device and can also be connected to your TV, Xbox or DVD player via standard RCA AV cables.

Retailing at $499, it boasts an 8-inch bass driver, two 5.25-inches long linear travel woofers with high damping synthetic rubber roll surrounds and 2 fluid-damped fabric dome tweeters all in one.

Vaja is the recent addition to elite list of zune accessory makers who are officially listing products for launch. Vaja is an Argentina based company and has been known for making exquisite high quality leather cases.

The current models available are Balance, Classic, Classic Top and Classic Top Retro. Prices start at $50 and are available in wide variety of colors. What else you can even order a custom-handcrafted case with a laser-engraved logo or three lines of laser-engraved text on the back.

One more thing you won’t find them in stores, the only way to get them is by ordering online at their site. Visit their website for additional features and information.

With Zune officially launching in less than a week, an entire network of third-party suppliers are pushing accessories for the player to make a quick buck.

A survey conducted by ABI Research group shows that 28% were interested in buying a new mp3 player in the next year and more than 50% of those who already own other digital media players including iPod would consider buying Zune.

Over the years many manufacturers have made a killing off iPod accessory sales. And the same holds true for Zune. An estimated of 500,000 Zune players will be sold this holiday season as per ABI Research. It’s speculated that accessories alone could generate around $60 million in sales early on.