A story in the Financial Times today is reporting that Zune services will soon be expanding into a number of new markets:

The Zune-branded service – which includes the most popular films from MGM, Paramount and Universal – will be available in 18 of its largest western markets, including the US, UK, France, Germany and Australia.

The article doesn’t offer any timetable, or any news on whether the Zune HD will be available in these new markets.  In fact, there doesn’t appear to be any official word coming from Microsoft, at least in the form of a press release or similar.  However, The Financial Times quotes Christine Heckart, general manager for TV, video and music marketing at Microsoft, on bringing Zune to 3 screens (PC, TV, and Mobile):

“The strategy and vision of Zune is to continue to build out that full entertainment experience,” Ms Heckart said. “This is a very important step for us to introduce Zune to new consumers around the world.”

We’re hearing unconfirmed reports that Zune services, and Zune HD sales, are being readied for China and India, but again, the timing, and indeed if these reports are even true, are unclear at this time.

Zune services are set to become a big part of Microsoft’s 3 screen approach to offering music, video, and movies to consumers in a number of markets around the world.