The Singapore media is reporting (reg. required) that Creative Technology Ltd. (NASDAQ: CREAF) had no problems finding people who wanted to exchange their existing iPod for a new Zen Micro, although only 20 people decided to take advantage of this offer. Surprisingly, at least one individual decided to "switch" his (1 week old!) iPod Mini for the creative player: Li Guoli, 13, said: "'I just bought this iPod Mini at Sim Lim Square last week, but I've used it a lot of times. But I thought I'll exchange it for the Zen Micro as it's smaller, and I like to try new things."
One hopes that he will find that the Zen is good enough to use "a lot of times."
In other news, Creative is marching on the path of giving even more Zens away, as part of it's campaign of war against Apple. It is running a lucky draw (open only to residents of Singapore) for which the top prize is 10 Zen micros, one of each colour, autographed by the Creative CEO, Mr Sim Wong Hoo. We respectfully suggest that laser-etched U2 band member signatures might be preferable. Creative has also managed to secure a US$ 175 Million loan to "fund efforts in the MP3 player market."
Update: If you were wondering what Creative was going to do with the ipods: Mr Sim Wong Hoo, Creative chief executive officer, said: 'I'm pleased with the outcome and it was as we expected. We will put the iPods to productive and meaningful use, like for marketing comparison. We are not afraid to compare!' He sounds excited. We would be too.
