A news article from Bloomberg reports that J Allard has overseen Microsoft's wireless audio and movie portable player which is said to rival the iPod and to be launched in time for this Christmas!

The news follows a March report from San Jose Mercury News reporter Dean Takahashi that Allard is heading efforts to create a new portable, Xbox branded game console, with other prominent Xbox figures also being involved and some music/video functionality - but it is unclear whether this device is the same as the one cited in the Bloomberg report.

The Bloomberg report does note that Microsoft has hired music industry executive Chris Stephenson, who has reportedly met with representatives from Hollywood studios, the music industry, and television broadcasters in order to get agreements signed to provide licensed content for the new player.

According to the news agency, Microsoft's upcoming digital player, whose creation is being overseen by J Allard as well as Xbox executive Robbie Bach, will include wireless internet connectivity, so users will be able to download music without a computer – a feature not currently supported by the iPod.

News Source: Gamasutra.com"