Flash memory supplier SanDisk Corp. has added a new member to the popular Sansa Clip family. Called Sansa Clip Zip MP3 player, the latest addition offers rich sound quality with compatibility with all major music formats. Plus, it is easy to use, said the maker.

SanDisk said that the Sansa Clip Zip MP3 player is perfect for active music fans looking for a feature-rich, easy-to-use player at a great value.

In a statement, Tom Bailey, senior director of AV retail at SanDisk said, “The Sansa Clip family ranks among the most popular sub-$50 MP3 players in the United States, and now we've made it even better.” He added, “Our tiny Sansa Clip Zip packs big features that few other MP3 players in its class can match.”

According to SanDisk, the Sansa Clip Zip MP3 player offers rich sound quality and is compatible with all major music formats, including the AAC codec (DRM-free iTunes compatible). In addition, the player's new 1.1-inch LCD color screen offers 83 percent more viewing area than previous models. While its updated graphical interface displays album art and makes it easier than ever for consumers to navigate songs, said SanDisk.

Other attractive features added to the Sansa Clip Zip MP3 player include microSDHC card slot, easy compatibility with all major music, audio book and podcast formats, such as MP3, WMA, WAV, FLAC, Ogg Vorbis, AAC and Audible files, and optimized for use with Rhapsody, eMusic and Napster music services. The microSDHC card slot lets consumers instantly expand the player's storage capacity up to 32 additional gigabytes.

Thinner and lighter than before, the player weighs a little more than half an ounce (15.8 grams) and is about the same size as a matchbox (2.25 x 1.42 x 0.58 inches). The compact player features a durable design that is suitable for hands-free listening, said the manufacturer.

With up to 15 hours of battery life, the Sansa Clip Zip MP3 player includes a built-in microphone with voice recording capabilities and uses a micro-USB connector. It comes in capacities of 4 GB (storing up to 1,000 songs) and 8 GB (storing up to 2,000 songs). SanDisk said that the player is available now in the US and Canada, and will reach Europe next month.

Want to learn more about the latest in communications and technology? Then be sure to attend ITEXPO West 2011, taking place Sept. 13-15, 2011, in Austin, Texas. ITEXPO offers an educational program to help corporate decision makers select the right IP-based voice, video, fax and unified communications solutions to improve their operations. It's also where service providers learn how to profitably roll out the services their subscribers are clamoring for – and where resellers can learn about new growth opportunities. To register, click here.