Microsoft has disclosed that a Zune-branded phone is part of its future plans to expand in the digital music market according to Chris Stephenson, general manager of global marketing. In direct competition with Apple and it's long-rumored 'iPhone', Microsoft is seeming not to be keeping any secrets - "A Zune phone is definitely part of the future of this brand" says Stephenson, but if the Zune itself is anything to go by, it is likely that the phone will be able to wirelessly share music selections with other users via WiFi or Bluetooth, and that users will also probably be able to purchase music to download directly from the phone.

If this news is anything to go by, Microsoft is sure trying to beat Apple to the punch with an all-in-one, digital-music-playing phone. This disclosure is even more upfront, considering the Zune has yet to be released into the market, and is due in stores this coming US holiday season.

The Zune Phone at this time, has no further details or timeline given when to expect it.