Microsoft MP3 player to match iPod pricing

Microsoft is preparing to begin sales of Zune, its first digital music playing device. Pricing will be comparable with that of Apple’s iPod with a 30 Gb Zune costing around $249.99. The units will be sold at a loss for Microsoft. Songs will be sold for 99 cents, like with iTunes, but will only be available for purchase with credits. Songs will cost 79 credits and you will be able to purchase them at 80 credits for a dollar. Microsoft will also have a subscription service.

Audioslave’s Morello arrested

Tom Morello of Audioslave was arrested as part of a protest march in Los Angeles. Approximately 400 other people were arrested in the protest meant to raise awareness of the rights of hotel workers. Morello performed at the protest as The Nightwatchman. Ben Harper also performed. About 2,000 people participated in the protest.

Lily Allen, others to auction date

In an effort to raise money for several British non-profit organizations, Lily Allen is among the celebrities participating in Dating Direct’s Celebrity Dream Date auction. The bidding for Allen is currently up to GBP 2,350 and is open through Sunday. Other celebrity dates up for auction include Jodie Kidd, Jimmy Carr, and Jade Parfitt.