Creative have been lagging behind mp3 upstarts Apple for a while and not because Creative's stuff is duff - far from it. So, it's good to see that the company keeps on popping out with new kit to tempt us. Called the X-Fi, this player sports Wi-Fi and a host of communications features. It also looks good too!

OK, so it hasn't got the touch screen capabilities, but the new X-Fi does have a numeric keypad which allows you to chat to your pals via Yahoo Messenger, Google talk, or MSN Messenger.

It also has two listening modes and a feature called X-Fi Crystalizer which fills in the gaps details which might have been lost from the audio being compressed. Another feature is the X-Fi Expand, which simulates being at a live concert by channelling the sound in front of you rather than the normal stereo.

Creative will also be launching new software called Centrale, which supports and plays almost all media formats and allow users to rip DVDs and creative a server for file sharing.

Other features include speakers, microSD slot, 2.5-inch screen and an FM tuner. While there are no details on the official launch date or prices, sources said that it could be available within the next few days. With the new technological developments, it could certainly give the iPod a run for its money.

Source: epiZENter

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