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{{Short description|Discontinued line of portable media players by Creative Technology from 2004 to 2011}}
{{About|the portable media player series|the model in this series simply named "ZENZen"|ZENZen (portable media player)}}
{{Infobox information appliance
| title = Creative ZENZen
| logo = Creative ZEN logo.png
| logo_size =
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| predecessor = [[Creative NOMAD]]
}}
'''ZENZen''' is a series of discontinued [[portable media player]]s designed and manufactured by [[Creative Technology Limited]]. The players evolved from the [[Creative NOMAD|NOMAD]] brand through the NOMAD Jukebox series of [[MP3 player|music players]], with the first separate "ZENZen" branded models released in 2004. The last Creative Zen player, X-Fi3, was released at the end of 2011.
 
Three Creative Zens (the Portable Media Center, Micro Photo, and Vision:M) won the Best of [[Consumer Electronics Show|CES]] award<ref name="Zen Portable Media Center CES">{{cite press release|title=Creative Wins Second Consecutive "Best Of CES" Award At Consumer Electronics Show|publisher=[[Creative Technology]]|date=2004-01-12|url=http://creative.com/corporate/pressroom/releases/welcome.asp?pid=12013|access-date=2007-12-03|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081204163346/http://www.creative.com/corporate/pressroom/releases/welcome.asp?pid=12013|archive-date=2008-12-04}}</ref><ref name="ZENZen Micro Photo CES">{{cite press release|url=http://creative.com/corporate/pressroom/releases/welcome.asp?pid=11929|title=Creative ZENZen Micro Photo Wins "Best of CES" Award|publisher=Creative Technology|date=2005-01-10|access-date=2007-12-03|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081204163900/http://www.creative.com/corporate/pressroom/releases/welcome.asp?pid=11929|archive-date=2008-12-04}}</ref><ref name="ZENZen Vision:M CES">{{cite web|url=http://creative.com/press/releases/welcome.asp?pid=12297|title=Creative ZENZen Vision:M Wins "Best of CES" Award in MP3 and Portable Video Category and also Wins overall "Best in Show" Award|publisher=Creative Technology|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071016132348/http://creative.com/press/releases/welcome.asp?pid=12297|archive-date=2007-10-16}}</ref> from 2004 to 2006 in their respective categories, with the latter winning the overall award.<ref name="ZENZen Vision:M CES" /> The ZENZen series had a strong foothold in Asian Pacific markets, especially in [[Singapore]], the company's headquarters.
 
All players support [[MP3]] and [[Windows Media Audio|WMA]] formats, while some models support also [[WAV]] and [[Audible.com|Audible]] formats. They are bundled with device drivers and Creative MediaSource, a [[Media player (application software)|media player]] that includes transferring and syncing abilities exclusively for the players. Some models are [[Microsoft PlaysForSure|PlaysForSure]]-certified for being compatible with [[Windows Media Player]] via [[Media Transfer Protocol]] (MTP) and supporting the [[Janus (DRM)|Janus DRM]]. They are natively compatible with [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]], with some also supporting [[Mac OS X]].
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{{Clear}}
 
=== ZENZen Portable Media Center ===
[[Image:Portable Media Center.jpg|thumb|Zen Portable Media Center]]
The Zen Portable Media Center, announced on January 8, 2004, and released eight months later,<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.cnet.com/reviews/creative-zen-portable-media-center-review/ |title= Creative Zen Portable Media Center review |publisher=CNET |access-date=2021-11-05}}</ref> is based on [[Microsoft]]'s [[Portable Media Center]] interface, runs [[Windows Mobile]] and supports [[Windows Media Video|WMV]], WMA, and MP3, and can display [[JPEG]] images; other video formats are supported through transcoding. This device was the first to exclusively support [[Microsoft]]'s [[Media Transfer Protocol]], and was presented at the [[Consumer Electronics Show]] in 2004, winning the [[TechTV]] Best of CES Award in the Portable Audio and Video category.<ref name="Zen Portable Media Center CES" /> The player uses a 1.8-inch 20 or 40&nbsp;GB hard drive from [[Hitachi, Ltd.|Hitachi]]. The Zen Portable Media Center has been replaced by the ZENZen Vision and the ZENZen Vision W.
{{Clear}}
 
=== ZENZen Touch ===
[[File:Zen touch.jpg|thumb|upright|Creative ZENZen Touch]]
The redesigned 40&nbsp;GB Zen Touch was released on June 7, 2004.<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.cnet.com/reviews/creative-zen-touch-review/|title= Creative Zen Touch review|publisher=CNET |access-date=2010-08-06}}</ref> The model incorporated major changes in design, functionality and technology.
 
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{{Clear}}
 
=== ZENZen Micro ===
[[File:Zenmicro.jpg|thumb|upright|ZENZen Micro glowing in the dark]]
The ZENZen Micro was released on November 12, 2004,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mp3.com/creative-zen-micro-5gb/hardware/24/summary.html|title=Creative Zen Micro (5GB) reviews and specs<!-- Bot generated title -->|access-date=3 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110604231934/http://www.mp3.com/creative-zen-micro-5gb/hardware/24/summary.html|archive-date=4 June 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref> and is a [[microdrive]] player available in 10 colors. It is also the first ZENZen release that sports the new branding, including capitals for all letters in ''Zen''.
[[Image:Zenmicro3.jpg|left|upright|thumb|ZENZen Micro with the included earphones]]
The ZENZen Micro is much smaller than the Touch and shares a similar interface and controls (including the touchpad, without the 'OK' button. Making a selection would be done by tapping the touchpad). The Micro has a removable battery rated to last for up to 12 hours of continuous playback. In addition, the player has an [[Light-emitting diode|LED]]-backlit [[liquid crystal display|LCD]], a glowing case, and offers hard disk capacities of 4, 5 and 6&nbsp;GB.
 
The Micro also features a built-in FM tuner/recorder, voice recorder and microphone, partitioning for data storage (i.e. acting as a removable hard drive for PCs), and the ability to synchronize contacts, tasks and calendars with [[Microsoft Outlook]]. Accessories for the ZENZen Micro include matching color speakers, wireless headsets and a wired remote control.
 
The first 35,000 units shipped worldwide were packaged as a "Limited Edition" package that came with an additional rechargeable battery. Asian models of the Limited Edition included the extra battery and a wired remote control.
 
At [[Consumer Electronics Show|CES]] 2005, it was announced that the ZENZen Micro line would be expanded to include 4 and 6&nbsp;GB models.
 
The ZENZen Micro optionally supports the [[Microsoft]] [[Media Transfer Protocol]] and the [[Microsoft PlaysForSure|PlaysForSure]] certification with updated [[firmware]].
 
The Micro competed with players such as [[iPod Mini]] and [[Rio Carbon]].
 
=== ZENZen (Micro-based hard drive player) ===
The ZENZen was released on April 6, 2005,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://forums.creative.com/creativelabs/board/message?board.id=dap&message.id=45734|title=Creative Zen 20gb (zen micro look) really available??? Price (with shipping): 369$|author=Lazar|publisher=[[Creative Technology|Creative]]|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071016132355/http://forums.creative.com/creativelabs/board/message?board.id=dap&message.id=45734|archive-date=2007-10-16}}</ref> and is slightly larger than the ZENZen Micro with a 20&nbsp;GB [[hard drive]] capacity. The ZENZen, however, has a magnesium back-casing and the battery is unremovable. This model was initially available in the Asia-Pacific region, but soon became available in the US through Cambridge SoundWorks, a subsidiary of Creative.
 
=== ZENZen Neeon ===
[[File:zen neeon.jpg|left|upright|thumb|ZENZen Neeon]]
The ZENZen Neeon was released on May 17, 2005.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.dealtime.co.uk/xPF-Creative-Labs-Zen-NEEON-5-GB |title=Creative Technology Zen NEEON (5 GB, 1200 Songs) MP3 Player Specs |publisher=DealTime.co.uk |date=2005-05-19 |access-date=2010-08-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090114174417/http://www.dealtime.co.uk/xPF-Creative-Labs-Zen-NEEON-5-GB |archive-date=2009-01-14 |url-status=dead }}</ref> It is a throwback to the old Zen Xtra, but in a much smaller size. The 5&nbsp;GB model has an [[Signal-to-noise ratio|SNR]] of 98 [[Decibel|dB]] and a battery life of 16 hours (19 hours with new firmware version). The front has a piano black finish, and the back is [[anodized aluminium]] that comes in ten colors. and the LCD screen has a 7 color backlight.
 
The Creative ZENZen Neeon was criticized highly at the time of release for having a slow interface, more specifically slow start-up, menus and song switch. As well, the first released models came with a Windows virus.<ref>[https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/virus-infected-creative-zen-mp3-players-found/ Virus-infected Creative ZENZen MP3 Players found] CNET - September 1, 2005</ref> A later firmware update provided a much quicker start-up time and interface.
 
Like the Zen Micro, this unit has an FM tuner and a [[microphone]], but also has a line in record function. This model does not use proprietary USB drivers; it is a standard [[USB mass storage device class|USB mass storage]] device.
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On November 17, 2005, the microdrive player was updated to 6&nbsp;GB and a new flash range was launched in capacities of 512&nbsp;MB, 1&nbsp;GB, and 2&nbsp;GB.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.creative.com/corporate/pressroom/?id=12260|title=Press Relations|website=Creative.com|access-date=3 December 2018}}</ref> The revised device is equipped with a dual-tone [[Organic light-emitting diode|OLED]] screen. The device is also accompanied by a new marketing campaign, ''Put a Face to Your Music'', with emphasis on a whole new range of customizable "Stik-Ons", which are decal stickers that can be placed and removed from the face of the unit.
 
=== ZENZen MicroPhoto ===
The ZENZen MicroPhoto, released on July 28, 2005,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.versiontracker.com/dyn/moreinfo/win/60992|title=Creative ZENZen MicroPhoto 1.0.0.0 software download|publisher=[[VersionTracker]]|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071029130613/http://www.versiontracker.com/dyn/moreinfo/win/60992|archive-date=2007-10-29}}</ref> shares the same features of the ZENZen Micro except [[Audible.com]] support (reinstated in firmware versions 1.31.01 and above), and adds an upgraded 262,144-color (18 bpp) [[Organic light-emitting diode|OLED]] screen for displaying photos. To fix the lack of bass with the ZENZen Micro, Creative also implemented a Bass Boost feature, now available in most subsequent players. The 8&nbsp;GB player is available in the same colors of the Micro and is advertised to store "thousands of [[JPEG]]s" or "4,000 songs". Due to its larger battery, the player can play up to 15 hours of continuous playback, 3 hours longer than its predecessor.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://aphnetworks.com/reviews/creative_zen_microphoto|last=Schweitzer|first=Jason|title=Reviews – Creative Zen MicroPhoto 8GB|publisher=APH Networks|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060521124223/http://aphnetworks.com/reviews/creative_zen_microphoto|archive-date=2006-05-21}}</ref> The MicroPhoto is the first of many subsequent players with expanded customization, with the ability to use a picture as a custom wallpaper, with color themes to change the tones of it, and six color schemes.
 
The player was first announced at the [[CES 2005|2005 Consumer Electronics Show]], where it won the [[G4 (American TV channel)|G4TV]] Best of CES award in the Audio To Go category.<ref name="ZENZen Micro Photo CES" /> In November 2005, the player was the [[CNET]] Editor's Choice award on [[CNET|CNET.com]].
 
=== ZENZen Sleek/Sleek Photo ===
[[Image:CreativeZenSleek.jpg|thumb|left|120px|ZENZen Sleek]]
The ZENZen Sleek was first available on August 30, 2005,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000A3N78Y |title=Creative Zen Sleek 20 GBMP3 Player: Electronics |website=Amazon |access-date=2010-08-06}}</ref> and is an upgrade of the ZENZen with a 20&nbsp;GB [[hard drive]], FM radio, built-in microphone, and sports an aluminium casing. Like its predecessors, it can synchronize with Microsoft Outlook's calendar, address book, and memo functions. The player has a battery life of up to 20 hours.
 
The ZENZen Sleek Photo was released on October 6, 2005. It is the color-screen equivalent of the Sleek, with the extra ability to view JPEG photos on an OLED screen.
{{Clear}}
 
=== ZENZen Vision ===
[[Image:Creative vision 1.jpg|right|thumb|200px|ZENZen Vision (Black)]]
The ZENZen Vision was released on October 1, 2005.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mp3.com/creative-zen-vision-30gb/hardware/4/summary.html|title=Creative ZENZen Vision (30&nbsp;GB) Reviews and Specs|publisher=MP3.com|access-date=2007-08-31|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070929145623/http://www.mp3.com/creative-zen-vision-30gb/hardware/4/summary.html|archive-date=2007-09-29|url-status=dead}}</ref> Since its launch, it is the winner of several awards, including ''Best of Digital Life 2005'' and the [[Red dot design award]]. Unlike its predecessor, the ZENZen Vision does not have Microsoft's Portable Media Center interface. It supports audio (WMA-DRM, WMA, MP3, WAV), video (WMV, Motion JPEG, MPEG 1/2/4, DivX 4/5, xvid) and picture (JPEG) playback. The ZENZen Vision utilizes a 30&nbsp;GB 1.8-inch Toshiba hard drive and can partition a part of its hard drive to work as a removable disk (up to 16&nbsp;GB) for any [[operating system]]. There are some features of the ZENZen Vision which require compatibility with certain operating systems, e.g. require users to have access to [[Microsoft]] [[Windows XP]] (SP1 or higher).
 
Like past models, the ZENZen Vision comes with an FM tuner, a voice and FM recorder, and a calendar and organizer that can be synchronized with [[Microsoft Outlook]].
 
The ZENZen Vision has a 3.7-inch, trans-reflective [[Video Graphics Array|VGA]] TFT-LCD screen. It has a video output ([[PAL]] or [[NTSC]]) port and a [[CompactFlash]] slot which can be used to transfer the contents to the player. An adapter for other memory card types is also available as an accessory. The ZENZen Vision also supports an optional [[infrared]] remote.
 
=== ZENZen Vision:M ===
{{Main|ZENZen Vision:M}}
<!-- Note: All content in this article should be adapted for the main player article, while the stuff here be shortened.-->
The ZENZen Vision:M, launched on December 8, 2005,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cnet.com/reviews/creative-zen-vision-m-review/ |title= Creative Zen VISION: M review |publisher=CNET |date=2006-01-26 |access-date=2010-08-06}}</ref> is adapted from the earlier released Vision. The 2.5-inch, [[TFT LCD]] display has a resolution of 320 by 240 pixels ([[Quarter Video Graphics Array|QVGA]]), and is capable of outputting 640 x 480 using a composite video cable. The player has an estimated battery life of 16 hours for audio, and five hours for videos (tested under continuous playback). Album art is shown during playback, and image-viewing is enhanced with pan, zoom and rotation abilities. The 30&nbsp;GB model is available in white, black, green, blue and pink. Like the other players in the Vision and Micro lines, this model is known for its glowing button symbols.
 
The ZENZen Vision:M has won a number of accolades, including the "Best of Show" and "Best Portable Audio & Video Device" awards at the 2006 [[Consumer Electronics Show]],<ref name="ZENZen Vision:M CES" /> as well as the [[Red dot design award|Red Dot Design Award]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://en.red-dot.org/317+M520107399e1.html |title=red dot award: product design 2006 - ZENZen Vision:M Portable Media Player |publisher=En.red-dot.org |access-date=2010-08-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110721201236/http://en.red-dot.org/317+M520107399e1.html |archive-date=2011-07-21 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
 
On August 31, 2006, Creative announced the availability of an upgraded player with 60&nbsp;GB capacity. This version has a USB host adapter cable, which enables users to transfer photos from a digital camera directly to the player. It is only available in black and white, and was initially slightly thicker than the 30&nbsp;GB model. On March 11, 2007, the 60&nbsp;GB model was upgraded with a new slimmer profile - the same thickness as the 30&nbsp;GB version.
 
===ZENZen Nano/ZENZen Nano Plus===
[[Image:Creative Zen Nano Plus.jpg|left|160px|thumb|ZENZen Nano Plus (1&nbsp;GB Blue)]]
The ZENZen Nano and the ZENZen Nano Plus were released internationally on June 1, 2006. The player is a rebranded [[Creative MuVo|MuVo]] N200. The ZENZen Nano Plus is a [[USB mass storage device class|USB mass storage device]], and does not require proprietary drivers. It has a battery-life of up to 18 hours using an AAA battery. Like the Micro and the MicroPhoto, the Nano is available in ten colors: black, pink, red, orange, green, light blue, blue, purple, gray, and white.
 
The ZENZen Nano Plus is a Nano with an FM tuner with 30 custom presets, plus voice, radio, and line-in recording. Recorded audio is encoded in [[WAV]] (ADPCM), except for line-in, which encodes to [[MP3]].
 
=== ZENZen Neeon 2 ===
The ZENZen Neeon 2, a successor to the Neeon, was announced on August 2, 2006.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.creative.com/corporate/pressroom/?id=12568|title=Press Relations|website=Creative.com|access-date=3 December 2018}}</ref> The player has a 1.5-inch [[Super-twisted nematic display|CSTN-LCD]] display in a resolution of 128x128. The 1 and 2&nbsp;GB models are available in a black, silver, blue, pink or orange backplate, accompanied with a piano black front, while the 4&nbsp;GB model comes only in black and silver. The Neeon 2 supports MP3, WMA, and WAV, display JPEG images and plays AVI videos which are transcoded upon transfer. Also, the player has an FM tuner, built-in microphone, and line-in recording in WMA. The rechargeable lithium-ion battery plays up to 20 hours of continuous audio playback and up to 8 hours of video playback, the highest for any Creative digital audio player.
 
Like its predecessor, decal stickers called "Stik-Ons" are sold separately to customize the look of the Neeon 2's frontplate, though they cannot be interchanged. The players and their "Stik-Ons" are only available in Australia, [[Singapore]] and several other Asian countries.
 
=== ZENZen Vision W ===
{{Main|ZENZen Vision W}}
The ZENZen Vision W was released on September 17, 2006.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cnet.com/reviews/creative-zen-vision-w-review/|title= Creative Zen Vision W review|publisher=[[CNet]]|last=Kim|first=James|access-date=2021-11-05}}</ref> A variant of the ZENZen Vision, the portable media player has a 4.3-inch, widescreen (16:9) TFT-LCD display. The player comes in black and is available with 30 or 60&nbsp;GB capacity. Like the ZENZen Vision:M, a built-in microphone and an FM tuner are included, as well as support for the same media formats, a similar graphical interface and the ability to sync organizer data from Microsoft Outlook. It also includes a [[CompactFlash]] reader for extra capacity and the direct upload of images.
 
=== ZENZen Stone/Stone Plus ===
[[Image:Creative ZENZen Stone.jpg|140px|thumb|right|ZENZen Stone (White)]]The ZENZen Stone, released on May 3, 2007,<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.cnet.com/reviews/creative-zen-stone-review/|title= Creative Zen Stone review |website=CNET |access-date=2021-11-05}}</ref> is a small and screenless 1 or 2 GB player. Coated in glossy plastic, the player is available in black, white, blue, pink, green, and red. The ZENZen Stone is compatible with the [[MP3]], [[Windows Media Audio|WMA]], and [[Audible.com|Audible]] formats, is [[USB mass storage device class|UMS]] compliant, and the battery lasts up to 11 hours.{{Clear}}
 
[[Image:Zen Stone Plus and case.jpg|140px|thumb|right|ZENZen Stone Plus with case]]
Although it is slightly larger than the ZENZen Stone, the ZENZen Stone Plus is identical in design. However, the ZENZen Stone Plus has a monochromic [[organic light-emitting diode|OLED]] screen, a built-in FM tuner, a stopwatch (the first ZENZen player to have this ability) and a built-in microphone. The ZENZen Stone Plus plays approximately 9.5 hours of continuous audio playback, and comes with the same colors as the ZENZen Stone in a 2&nbsp;GB capacity. A 4&nbsp;GB model was subsequently released on June 29, 2007.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://global.yesasia.com/en/PrdDept.aspx/code-c/section-electronics/version-all/did-10/pid-1004908576/ |title=YesAsia.com: Electronics: Creative ZENZen Stone Plus White) MP3 Player 2 GB |website=Global.yesasia.com |date=2010-08-02 |access-date=2010-08-06}}</ref> A built-in speaker version was also released. Both versions support [[MP3]] and [[Windows Media Audio|WMA]], with the built-in speaker version also supporting iTunes-encoded [[Advanced Audio Coding|AAC]] and [[Audible.com|Audible]] formats.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://uk.europe.creative.com/products/product.asp?category=213&subcategory=214&product=17437&nav=0&listby= |title=Creative ZENZen Stone Plus with speaker &#124; MP3 Players |website=Uk.europe.creative.com |access-date=2010-08-06}}</ref>{{Clear}}
 
A successor called the Zen Krystal was presented in 2008, featuring a [[pedometer]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/creative-zen-krystal-zen-stone-plus-gets-a-doppelganger/|title = Creative Zen Krystal: Zen Stone Plus gets a doppelgänger}}</ref>
 
=== ZENZen Wav ===
The ZENZen Wav was released on May 25, 2007.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gadgetell.com/2007/05/zen-wav-free-your-ears/|title=ZENZen Wav - Free Your Ears|publisher=Gadgetell|access-date=2007-08-29}}</ref> The [[Flash memory|flash-based]] player has built-in stereo speakers and supports the [[MP3]], [[Windows Media Audio|WMA]], and [[WAV]] formats. It is the first player in the ZENZen line to have the following features: a [[Highcolour|16-bit]] color screen, unlike other ZENZen players, which are 8-bit; a battery life of 30 hours (20 with the speakers), which was the longest compared to any previous ZENZen player; the ability to read [[e-book]]s; and the ability to show 3 different time zones "at a glance". The ZENZen Wav comes in capacities of 2 and 4&nbsp;GB.
 
=== ZENZen V/ZENZen V Plus ===
{{Main|ZENZen V}}
[[Image:Rachel's Zen V.jpg|left|169px|thumb|ZENZen V (Green/Black, 2&nbsp;GB)]]
Creative's first [[Flash memory|flash]]-based [[portable media player]] was released on June 20, 2006.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.mp3.com/creative-zen-v-plus/hardware/141/summary.html |title=Creative Zen V Plus reviews and specs |website=Mp3.com |date=2006-06-20 |access-date=2010-08-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110524113500/http://www.mp3.com/creative-zen-v-plus/hardware/141/summary.html |archive-date=2011-05-24 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The scratch-resistant models have an [[organic light-emitting diode|OLED]] display with a resolution of 128×128. They come in white and black with orange trim for the 1&nbsp;GB version, green trim for 2&nbsp;GB, and black with blue trim for the 4&nbsp;GB version and later an 8&nbsp;GB version. The ZENZen V Plus plays video and has an FM tuner, while the ZENZen V does not. The players support the same formats as the Vision:M, while the videos will be trans coded upon transfer. There are also built-in microphones for voice recording, as well as wires for [[Line-in Recording|line-in recording]]. The rechargeable lithium-ion battery has a life span of up to 15 hours of continuous audio playback.
 
The ZENZen V Plus won the CNET Editor's Choice award during that month.
 
On September 29, 2006, Creative announced that the blue-and-black ZENZen V Plus had been upgraded to 8&nbsp;GB. Four days later, the company joined forces with the [[National Breast Cancer Foundation (United States)|National Breast Cancer Foundation]] to release a pink version of the 2&nbsp;GB model, now available in most areas.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://us.creative.com/corporate/pressroom/releases/welcome.asp?pid=12638 |title=Corporate: Public Relations |access-date=2006-12-28 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070128185529/http://us.creative.com/corporate/pressroom/releases/welcome.asp?pid=12638 |archive-date=2007-01-28 }}, Creative supports the National Breast Cancer Foundation in conjunction with launch of pink ZENZen V Plus 2&nbsp;GB. Retrieved January 28, 2007.</ref> In Europe and Japan, the 8&nbsp;GB version is now available in a red-and-black color.<ref>[http://jp.creative.com/products/product.asp?category=213&subcategory=214&product=15306], jp. Creative.com - ZENZen V Plus. Retrieved March 12, 2007.</ref>
 
On August 8, 2007, Creative released a 16&nbsp;GB model of the ZENZen V Plus,<ref>{{cite press release|url=http://jp.creative.com/corporate/pressroom/releases/welcome.asp?pid=12781|title=クリエイティブストア限定 CREATIVE ZENZen V PLUS 16GBモデル発売のお知らせ|publisher=[[Creative Technology|Creative]]|language=ja|date=2007-08-08|access-date=2007-12-05}}</ref> making it the highest capacity flash-based player until the [[Creative ZENZen#ZENZen|ZENZen]] beat its own record with the release of its 32&nbsp;GB model.<ref name="ZEN32Zen32">{{cite press release|url=http://asia.creative.com/corporate/pressroom/releases/welcome.asp?pid=12867|title=Creative introduces the world's first 32&nbsp;GB flash memory-based portable media player with the latest credit-card sized ZENZen|date=2007-12-03|access-date=2007-12-04|publisher=Creative|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080423030801/http://asia.creative.com/corporate/pressroom/releases/welcome.asp?pid=12867|archive-date=2008-04-23|url-status=dead}}</ref>
 
=== ZENZen ===
[[Image:Zen mp3 player.JPG|thumb|right|ZENZen]]
{{Main|ZENZen (portable media player)}}
The replacement of the ZENZen:VisionM, simply called "ZENZen", offered many of the same features but in a small pocket-sized form factor.<ref>{{cite web |last1=France |first1=Jasmine |title=Creative Zen review: Creative Zen |url=https://www.cnet.com/reviews/creative-zen-review/ |website=CNET |access-date=November 5, 2021 |date=September 14, 2007}}</ref> This [[flash memory|flash]]-based player was released on September 14, 2007,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mp3.com/creative-zen/hardware/262/summary.html|title=Creative ZENZen Reviews and Specs|publisher=MP3.com|access-date=2007-10-07|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071023050534/http://www.mp3.com/creative-zen/hardware/262/summary.html|archive-date=2007-10-23|url-status=dead}}</ref> in capacities of 2, 4, 8, and 16&nbsp;GB. A 32&nbsp;GB model was announced on December 4, 2007, setting a record for storage capacity among flash-based players. The player is 0.44-inch thick,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://us.creative.com/products/product.asp?category=213&subcategory=214&product=16999&nav=technicalSpecifications |title=ZENZen ZEN4GBBKZen4GBBK - MP3 Players - Credit card-sized media player |publisher=Us.creative.com |access-date=2010-08-06 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090108022522/http://us.creative.com/products/product.asp?category=213&subcategory=214&product=16999&nav=technicalSpecifications |archive-date=2009-01-08 }}</ref> making it the slimmest ZENZen player so far. It is the first ZENZen to have an [[SD card]] slot, support for unprotected [[iTunes]]-encoded [[Advanced Audio Coding|AAC]], and a [[24-bit color]] screen.
 
=== ZENZen MX ===
The ZENZen MX is a derivative of the ZENZen, released in 2009. It shares the same form factor as the ZENZen, but reduced processing power, cosmetic changes and changes in firmware resulted in a slightly stripped-down and sluggishly operating player, retailing as a lower price.
 
=== ZENZen X-Fi ===
[[File:Creative Zen X-FI.JPG|thumb|Zen X-Fi]]
The ZENZen X-Fi was officially confirmed on July 10, 2008.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.creative.com/corporate/pressroom/releases/welcome.asp?pid=12963|title=CREATIVE INTRODUCES THE ZENZen X-FI AND THE ZENZen X-FI WITH WIRELESS LAN - THE ONLY PLAYERS TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF MP3 MUSIC PLAYBACK WITH X-FI AUDIO TECHNOLOGY|publisher=Creative|date=2008-07-10|access-date=2008-07-12|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080929162937/http://www.creative.com/corporate/pressroom/releases/welcome.asp?pid=12963|archive-date=2008-09-29}}</ref> The player's design is based on the [[Creative ZENZen#ZENZen|ZENZen]] and includes new features such as [[Sound Blaster X-Fi|X-Fi]] technology, [[Wi-Fi]], and online chat. The package includes a set of EP-830 headphones, and a built in speaker. It also supports wireless media streaming from a home network, similar to a [[Windows Media Center Extender]]. The player sold in capacities of 8&nbsp;GB (without Wi-Fi), 16&nbsp;GB, and 32&nbsp;GB.
 
=== ZENZen Mozaic ===
The ZENZen Mozaic is a flash player that was released on August 3, 2008, in capacities of 2, 4, 8&nbsp;, and 16 GB. The Mozaic features a 1.8-inch video screen, a keypad that resembles a [[mosaic]] pattern, and a built-in speaker (also in a mosaic pattern). It also includes features such as a built-in FM radio, voice recorder, and picture viewer. The ZENZen Mozaic has two derivatives, the ZENZen Mozaic LX and the ZENZen Mozaic EZ300. The ZENZen Mozaic LX is a more affordable model which lacks an FM Radio and built-in speakers. The ZENZen Mozaic EZ300 is nearly identical in terms of function to the original Mozaic, but supports [[plug and play]] and only comes in solid colors (black, silver or pink). [[File:Black ZENZen Mozaic.jpg|thumb]]
 
===ZENZen X-Fi2===
[[Image:ZenX-fi2.JPG|thumb|right|Zen X-Fi 2]]
The ZENZen X-Fi2, announced September 2, 2009<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.epizenter.net/comment.php?comment.news.495|title=Creative touches the sound of perfection with the ZENZen X-Fi2|publisher=epiZENterepiZenter.net|date=2009-09-02|access-date=2009-09-06|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090910095620/http://www.epizenter.net/comment.php?comment.news.495|archive-date=2009-09-10|url-status=dead}}</ref> is a feature update to the X-Fi. It includes many features of the X-Fi, including flash memory, X-Fi audio enhancements, and expandable memory. However, there are several notable differences between the two. The X-Fi2 features a full touchscreen user input mode, unlike the original's keypad-esque input method. Also, the X-Fi2 no longer has wireless networking features, and trades the SD input for a microSD card slot. Added to the player is support for the lossless, open-source [[FLAC]] codec, A/V output to a TV, and offline RSS reader support. Compared to similarly featured models from competitors, it is lower priced as well. It comes in 8&nbsp;GB, 16&nbsp;GB, 32&nbsp;GB and 64 GB variations. As with most other models, the Zen X-Fi2 charges via USB port, but can also be charged using a separately available wall adapter. An [[Software development kit|Application Development Kit]] based on the [[Lua (programming language)|Lua programming language]] is offered<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.creative.com/zenxfi2/adk/ |title=ZENZen X-Fi2 Application Development Kit (ADK) |publisher=Creative.com |access-date=2010-08-06 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100730123840/http://www.creative.com/zenxfi2/adk/ |archive-date=2010-07-30 }}</ref> for homebrew applications and games.
 
=== ZENZen X-Fi Style ===
 
The release of the ZENZen X-Fi Style series was announced on April 8, 2010.<ref name="ZENZen Style 100/300 and X-Fi Style Release">{{cite press release|title=Creative Delivers Pure Music on-the-go with ZENZen X-FI Style Portable Media Player: Taking the Audio Goodness of ZENZen X-FI2 to a new Level of Affordability|publisher=[[Creative Technology]]|date=2010-04-08|url=http://sg.creative.com/corporate/pressroom/releases/welcome.asp?pid=13149|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100506033505/http://sg.creative.com/corporate/pressroom/releases/welcome.asp?pid=13149|archive-date=6 May 2010}}</ref> It was created as a more affordable version of the X-Fi2, with removed [[Wi-Fi]] capability and touchscreen. The X-Fi Style comes in capacities of 8, 16, and 32&nbsp;GB. The player features a 2.4-inch display, video out, [[Sound Blaster X-Fi|X-Fi]] technology, a built-in speaker, FM radio, alarm clock, calendar and voice recorder. The battery life is rated at 25 hours for music and 5 hours for video. However, the expansion slot is omitted.
 
=== ZENZen Style 100/300 ===
 
The ZENZen Style series was announced at the same time as the X-Fi Style on April 9, 2010.<ref name="ZENZen Style 100/300 and X-Fi Style Release" /> The series is available in 4, 8, and 16&nbsp;GB capacities. Both the 100 and 300 models have the same portrait design similar to Creative's ZENZen Mozaic, as well as the same sized screen as the Mozaic, at 1.8-inches. The series features an alarm, calendar, voice recorder, and video and photo support. The Zen Style 300 also includes a built-in speaker and FM radio. The battery life is rated at 32 hours for music and 4 hours for video. Unfortunately, the Zen Style is not compatible with Napster-To-Go feature.
 
=== ZENZen Touch 2 ===
 
The first ZENZen with [[Android (operating system)|Android]] 2.1 on board. (Upgradeable to 2.2) Announced on November 2, 2010.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.techradar.com/uk/news/mobile-computing/creative-outs-android-zen-touch-2-mp3-player-904969|title=Creative outs Android Zen Touch 2 MP3 player|date=2 November 2010}}</ref> Has a microSD card slot, Bluetooth, wifi, and is available in 8&nbsp;GB with GPS, or 8&nbsp;GB or 16&nbsp;GB without GPS.<ref>[http://us.store.creative.com/ZENZen-Touch-2-with-GPS-8GB/M/B004EW0P9G.htm Creative.com] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110121163247/http://us.store.creative.com/ZENZen-Touch-2-with-GPS-8GB/M/B004EW0P9G.htm |date=2011-01-21 }} Creative ZENZen Touch 2 Mp3 Player product description page.</ref> The player comes bundled with the popular EP-630 in-ear earphones from Creative. A GPS version is also available in the 8&nbsp;GB capacity.
 
A firmware to update the player to Android 2.2 was released by Creative on the 26 of April. With the update, the ZENZen Touch 2 now support Flash and also Audible content for certain region.
 
=== ZENZen Style M300 ===
 
The ZENZen Style M300, announced on May 5, 2011,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2011-05-05-creative-debuts-compact-bluetooth-enabled-zen-style-m300-pmp.html|title = Creative debuts compact, Bluetooth-enabled Zen Style M300 PMP}}</ref> is a compact and lightweight Bluetooth MP3 player with a 1.4" screen and capacitive touch controls. Despite its small form size, the player has a full range of features including FM radio, photo and video playback, built-in microphone as well as a microSD slot to expand your music and photo library on the player. The player comes in 4 colors (Black, White, Yellow and Red) and 3 capacities (4, 8 and 16&nbsp;GB). A non-Bluetooth/FM radio version - the [http://uk.store.creative.com/entertainment-devices-mp3-players/zen-style-m100/948-20612.aspx ZENZen Style M100] is also available. Creative released an updated [http://support.creative.com/Products/ProductDetails.aspx?catID=948&CatName=Entertainment+Devices+%2f+MP3+Players&subCatID=949&subCatName=Entertainment+Tablets&prodID=20615&prodName=ZENZen+Style+M300&bTopTwenty=1&VARSET=prodfaq:PRODFAQ_20615,VARSET=CategoryID:948 firmware (1.00.16)] on the 11 of August 2011 which fixes some of the freezing and Bluetooth issues the player had when it was launched with its initial firmware.
 
=== ZENZen X-Fi3 ===
 
The ZENZen X-Fi3 is Creative's 3rd MP3 player to feature its proprietary [[Sound Blaster X-Fi|X-Fi audio technology]]. It includes X-Fi Crystallizer. Primary function of the Crystallizer is to "restore portions of the sound which were lost during compression". The available storage (8GB or 16GB) could be expanded thanks to the microSD card slot. The player was introduced at IFA 2011.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.whathifi.com/news/ifa-2011-creative-launches-wireless-headphone-ready-zen-x-fi3|title = Home|date = September 2011}}</ref>
 
The "compression" that is meant here is not the digital file-size reduction achieved by digital audio data compression technologies like for example mp3. Rather, the idea is to reverse the effects of dynamic range compression. X-Fi Expand allows you to experience surround sound effect on your earphones.
 
The ZENZen X-Fi3 features a 2-inch non-touch TFT display with touch buttons. It supports Bluetooth 2.1 and apt-X codec.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.creative.com/corporate/pressroom/?id=13242|title=Press Relations|access-date=17 April 2015}}</ref> Other features of the player include FM radio, photo and video playback, on-the-go playlist creation, built-in speaker and microphone and microSD slot (integrated).
 
== Hardware ==
Most models are built with [[Texas Instruments]]'s [[Texas Instruments TMS320|TMS320DA25x]] [[ARM architecture]] and [[digital signal processor]] that makes up the [[Central processing unit|CPU]], while the operating system used is Texas Instruments [[DSP/BIOS]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://forums.rockbox.org/index.php?PHPSESSID=22bf5c31bc007a980037872ac2a29638&topic=3320.375|title=Creative Zen Vision:M|publisher=Rockbox forums|access-date=2008-01-11}}</ref> The peripheral circuits take care of all media decoding without any accelerator chips. The [[touchpad]]s are managed by [[Synaptics]] controllers.
 
The newer [[Creative ZENZen#ZENZen|ZENZen]] players uses [[SigmaTel]]'s [[STMP3700]] ARM, described to be "designed specifically for portable devices".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tgdaily.com/content/view/33837/97/|title=Creative launches Zen player based on new media processor|last=Raby|first=Mark|website=Tgdaily.com|access-date=2007-11-09|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071201220827/http://www.tgdaily.com/content/view/33837/97/|archive-date=2007-12-01|url-status=dead}}</ref> [[Nucleus RTOS]] makes up the base of their OSes.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://forums.rockbox.org/index.php?topic=3320.360|title=Creative Zen Vision:M|publisher=Rockbox forums|access-date=2007-11-24}}</ref>
 
== Marketing campaign ==
[[File:Creative Zen ipod.jpg|thumb|Magazine ad of ZENZen Touch (2004)]]
Creative Labs was known for its fierce rivalry against Apple,<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/4985410.stm|title = Apple rival 'tries to ban iPods'|date = 16 May 2006}}</ref><ref name="If You Can't Beat 'Em">{{Cite web|url=https://www.forbes.com/global/2007/0212/046.html?sh=718be176143b|title = If You Can't Beat 'Em|website = [[Forbes]]}}</ref> at one point "declaring war" with the iPod,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2004-11-18-creative-declares-war-on-ipod.html|title = Creative declares war on iPod}}</ref> but the Zen line never managed to gain a significant foothold against the iPod.
 
In November 2004, Creative Labs announced a $100 million marketing campaign to promote their digital audio products, including the ZENZen range of MP3 players. In particular, the company was heavily publicizing the Zen Touch and ZENZen Micro. These two products had been featured in an increasing number of television commercials, print ads, and urban billboards.
 
Many celebrities were seen with the ZENZen Micro, including [[Paris Hilton]], pop group [[Maroon 5]] and Aerosmith's [[Steven Tyler]].
 
== Legal issues ==
Creative Labs, the American subsidiary of [[Creative Technology Limited]], was awarded a patent on a music management interface (now commonly seen on audio players, including the [[Apple Inc.|Apple]] [[iPod]]) by the [[US Patent and Trademark Office]] on 25 August 2005,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://appft1.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-adv.html&r=15&f=G&l=50&d=PG01&p=1&S1=%28creative.AS.+AND+player.CLM.%29|title= Automatic hierarchical categorization of music by metadata - United States Patent Application|last=Goodman|first=Ron}}</ref> having applied for it on 5 January 2001.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.creative.com/zenpatent/|title=ZENZen Patent Press Conference Speech Transcript|last=McHugh|first=Craig|publisher=Creative Labs|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070210072934/http://www.creative.com/zenpatent/|archive-date=2007-02-10}}</ref> Apple had filed for a similar patent on 22 October 2002 but that application was rejected.<ref name="Rejected">{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/4198360.stm|title=Creative wins MP3 player patent|work=BBC News | date=August 30, 2005 | access-date=January 2, 2010}}</ref> At the launch of the Vision:M, Creative announced that it would "aggressively pursue" respect of its patents, addressing "all manufacturers that use the same navigation system."<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/4510044.stm|title=Apple faces iPod patent dispute|last=Hermida|first=Alfred|work=BBC News | date=December 8, 2005 | access-date=January 2, 2010}}</ref> So far, Creative has only addressed Apple's infringement of its patent. Creative announced on 15 May 2006, that it had launched a lawsuit against Apple for the infringement of the ZENZen patent<ref>{{cite web|url=http://playlistmag.com/news/2006/05/15/creative/index.php|title=Creative sues Apple for patent infringement|last=Dalrymple|first=Jim|publisher=Playlist Magazine|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071014063806/http://playlistmag.com/news/2006/05/15/creative/index.php|archive-date=2007-10-14}}</ref> (Creative also asked the [[United States International Trade Commission|US Trade Commission]] to investigate whether Apple was breaching trade laws by importing iPods into the US),<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.macworld.co.uk/news/index.cfm?NewsID=14646|title=Creative sues Apple over patent|last=McMillan|first=Robert|publisher=Macworld}}</ref> which was then counter-sued by Apple on the same day, filing two lawsuits for infringing their patents.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://playlistmag.com/news/2006/05/19/lawsuit/index.php|title=Apple sues Creative over iPod patents|last=Dalrymple|first=Jim|publisher=Playlist Magazine|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060613180959/http://playlistmag.com/news/2006/05/19/lawsuit/index.php|archive-date=2006-06-13}}</ref> Subsequently, Apple and Creative reached a settlement, with Apple paying $100 million to Creative, and Creative joining the "Made for iPod" accessory program.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.appleinsider.com/article.php?id=1988|title=Apple's settlement seen as the right move|last=Marsal|first=Katie|publisher=AppleInsider}}</ref>
 
==Sales and market share==
Line 225:
*''Creative MediaSource''
*''Creative Media Explorer'' - Each player has their own version of Media Explorer to comply with format compatibility.
*''ZENcastZencast Organizer'' - A Podcast organizer
*''Creative Video Converter''
 
===Alternative software===
 
Third-party alternatives have been developed to enable legacy OS compatibility as well as compatibility with other operating systems.
 
*[[Free software]]:
**''[[Amarok (audio)|Amarok]]'', a Linux media player [http://amarok.kde.org]
**''[[Rhythmbox]]'', a Linux music player <ref>{{Cite web|url=http://projects.gnome.org/rhythmbox/|title=Apps/Rhythmbox - GNOME Wiki!}}</ref>
**''[[Banshee (music player)|Banshee]]'', another media player for Linux <ref>{{cite web |url=http://banshee-project.org/ |title=Banshee |website=banshee-project.org |access-date=12 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100612200214/http://banshee-project.org/ |archive-date=12 June 2010 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
**''Gnomad2'', which can transfer files to ZEN players with an FTP-like interface for Linux [http://gnomad2.sourceforge.net/]
**''KZenExplorer'', a synchronization tool for [[KDE]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://kzenexplorer.sourceforge.net/parser/parser.php?file=/index.ctn |title=KZenExplorer - Start Page |publisher=Kzenexplorer.sourceforge.net |access-date=2010-08-06}}</ref>
**''XNJB'', a synchronization tool for [[Mac OS X]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wentnet.com/projects/xnjb/ |title=XNJB |publisher=Wentnet.com |access-date=2010-08-06}}</ref>
**A generic USB mass storage device [https://web.archive.org/web/20070701171206/http://www.technical-assistance.co.uk/kb/usbmsd98.php driver] allows hassle-free transfer of music on older OSes
*[[Proprietary software]]:
**''Legacy OS Driver'', a Creative driver that gives compatibility to PlaysForSure-certified ZENs for Windows 98 SE, Me, and 2000.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://us.creative.com//support/downloads/download.asp?searchString=P4S_PCDRV_US_1_01_00.exe|title=Customer Support: Downloads|author=(C) Creative Labs 1999-2015|access-date=2006-11-05|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070312221748/http://us.creative.com/support/downloads/download.asp?searchString=P4S_PCDRV_US_1_01_00.exe|archive-date=2007-03-12|url-status=dead}}</ref>
**''[[MediaMonkey]]'', a media player that syncs with ZEN players. While the basic edition is freeware, the commercial Gold version has the ability to automatically convert media formats. [http://www.mediamonkey.com]
**''Notmad Explorer'', a software suite from Red Chair Software that allows for file and playlist management for ZEN players.
 
== See also ==
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Creative_Zen"