It seems that McDonalds is serious about going after wireless traffic enjoyed by users at Starbucks and is seeking out like minded partners who can help them create an alternative. That’s where Redmond comes in as the two giants in their perspective industries have joined forces to provide free wireless connectivity to Zune users for the Zune Marketplace. That means the Zune faithful will be able to buy and download music from the Zune Marketplace through Wayport wiFi gateways in more than 9,800 McDonald’s restaurants.

“Wayport is pleased to be working with Microsoft to make it easier for Zune users to access music on the go,” said Dan Lowden, vice president of business development and marketing for Wayport. “Our ability to enable and manage applications and devices over converged networks creates exciting new opportunities for our clients to attract new customers whose digital lifestyle extends beyond their home and office.”

The partnership comes at the same time that Microsoft begins offering new colors for their 16GB Zune 2. Users can custom order blue, red, pink, and green only through Microsoft’s refreshed Zune Originals site. And through its latest software update Zune users can also stream music and purchase it directly from the built-in FM radio. Zune customers have a choice in how they acquire music — they can pay per track or choose a Zune Pass subscription. Zune Pass subscribers can download or stream music from their Zune or computer interchangeably, all for a flat rate of $14.99 (U.S.) per month.
To give people a chance to experience Zune Pass subscription, Zune is offering a free, 14-day trial to all new customers. More information is available at http://www.zune.net/setup.

Hat tip – Engadget

Ps – isn’t that little Ronald McDonald adorable? Photo hat tip – Engadget.