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# Media Device Rivals
Microsoft, Apple and Sony Go Head to Head Over Handheld Devices

By Nigel Goodwin | Published 2006-03-02 | Tech
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/microsoft-device-to-rival-ipod-psp
References: [windowsfordevices](http://www.windowsfordevices.com/news/NS3892903455.html) & [news.bbc](http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/4761928.stm)

[Microsoft](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/handheld-xbox) may be preparing to take on [Apple's](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/apple-handheld-game-console) iPod and Sony's PSP with a new handheld media device, according to some sources. Images of the new, top-secret device have been leaked to the 'net. Code-named [Origami](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/moft-snap-phone-tripod-stand), the device is thought to have a touchscreen and wireless 'net access, and to play music, videos and games.

Details are still speculative and no date has been set for an official launch.

**Implications** - Leaking pictures may seem to be a mistake in the eyes of many consumers; however, many companies leak photos of their upcoming products and developments in order to stir up media and consumer attention, which can be a smart publicity tactic.

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 3.8/10
- Popularity: 73% | Activity: 33% | Freshness: 8%
- Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women
- Primary generations: Millennial
- Top markets: North America

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Gadgets](https://www.trendhunter.com/gadgets)

## Key Themes

### Key Themes Behind This Trend

- **Handheld Media Devices:** Opportunity to develop innovative features and functionalities that enhance user experience and differentiate from competitors.
- **Touchscreen Technology:** Potential for disruptive innovations in user interface design and intuitive interactions.
- **Wireless Connectivity:** Chance to revolutionize media consumption by enabling seamless streaming and sharing across devices.

### Where This Applies

- **Consumer Electronics:** Possibility for companies to create next-generation media devices and capture market share.
- **Software Development:** Opportunity to design innovative applications and platforms for multimedia content creation and consumption.
- **Entertainment and Gaming:** Potential to leverage handheld media devices for immersive gaming experiences and interactive entertainment.

## Related on Trend Hunter

- [Handheld Console Launches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/handheld-xbox.md)
- [Smartphone-Like Gaming Consoles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/xbox-series-a.md)
- [Console-Branded Handheld PCs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/asus-rog-ally-xbox.md)
- [High-End Mobile Gamer Consoles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/apple-handheld-game-console.md)
- [Next-Gen Handheld Gamer Consoles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/playstation-portable.md)
- [Portable Media Players](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/portable-media-player.md)
- [Collaboration Handheld Gaming Systems](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/microsoft-rog-xbox-ally.md)
- [Handheld Computer Interfaces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/handheld-mode.md)
- [Fan-Made Digital Audio Players](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nothing-npod.md)
