Microsoft to shut down Zune and Windows Live brands

After changing its logo a short while ago, it looks like Microsoft might be doing some major overhauling with its brand names as well.

Apparently Microsoft is planning to shut down the Windows Live and Zune brand names next week when it will announce the preview version of Windows 8 in Barcelona. No reason has been given, but presumably its for better integration of all its services in one place (like that Google Privacy Policy you might've heard of).

Most industry watchers say its about time Microsoft fixes the bewildering cocktail of brand names its dumped on the consumer. Especially, why Windows Live was called that when it was accessible from non-Windows devices has long seemed to be beyond comprehension.

In the upcoming Windows 8, Windows Live apps will be put into a collection of pre-installed applications called Windows Communications while Windows Live ID is set to become Microsoft Account. The Zune services will be added to the Xbox Live for Windows brand name.

Via Cnet