Zlango

The core of Zlango's offering was an icon-based language designed to replace or enhance text in messages. The system, which featured over 300 icons, allowed users to construct messages, dubbed "ZMS," using these visuals instead of words. These icons were designed to be memorable rather than immediately recognizable, with meanings that were suggestive, encouraging users to create their own personal interpretations. The platform was deployed as a Java and Brew application for mobile phones and also had a presence on the web and through an ICQ plug-in.

Zlango's business model initially focused on partnerships with mobile operators. Revenue was generated based on the number of active users on a partner operator's network. The service was localized in over 25 languages and launched in numerous countries through collaborations with operators like Pelephone, Orange, Globe, Swisscom, and Vodafone. In the U.S. market, the company shifted to a freemium model for its Android and iOS apps. This approach involved offering the basic application for free while generating revenue through a virtual store that sold premium icon packs and themes. This strategy included partnerships for branded content, such as icon packs for AMC's "The Walking Dead."

The company secured significant venture capital funding, raising $12 million from Benchmark and Accel in February 2007 and a total of $16.5 million by 2009. In July 2011, a letter of intent was signed for Zlango to be acquired by Vringo Inc., a mobile social and video applications developer, for $5 million in shares, although Zlango had raised $22 million by that time. The company underwent a rebranding in 2013, changing its name and its app's name to Lango. At its peak, the Tel Aviv-based company had around 40 employees. Zlango ceased operations in 2014.