Microsoft's next generation portable digital media player, the Zune HD will hit the shelves starting September 15th, or for those who must have theirs secured immediately, they can pre-order one starting today, at select Best Buy, Walmart and Microsoft stores.

The sleek and cutting edge Zune HD is available in 16GB Black and 32GB Platinum capacities, and is the first Zune to incorporate a touch-screen interface. The touch screen utilizes a stunning 3.3 inch OLED display that features a 16:9 widescreen format display (480X272 resolution) which is able to output directly to an HD TV (via optional HDMI premium A/V docking station) in 720p. The Zune HD also features built in Wi-Fi for browsing or streaming downloads, a built in HD radio receiver via HD2 and HD3 multicasts channels, a full internet browser with tap-to-zoom technology, a built in accelerometer, a touch-screen QWERTY keyboard and numerous additional accessories.

The 16GB version retails for $219.99 while its big brother the 32GB, retails for $289.99. With its slick design, feature rich content and its brilliant display, the Zune HD might just offer the best alternative yet, against the mighty iPod Touch.