Also common between the three platforms is something Microsoft's calling "the Zune experience, " which is really just a tagline associated with the Zune look and feel for the music management and playback features of the devices.

ENGADGET: Microsoft Kin: everything you ever wanted to know

The technology can also be used for music - giving songs a much more expansive and immersive feel.

BBC: NEWS | Technology | Mobile audio enters new dimension

And on a night when I needed to feel young, he made me feel like I was hearing music for the very first time.

NEWYORKER: We Are Alive

The music played on for a while, then faltered little by little, as each player came to feel unsure of why they were playing.

NEWYORKER: A Tiny Feast