New Zebra Basic Interpreter (ZBI) Activation Process

Available as an optional Zebra printer programming language, ZBI 2.0 allows Zebra printers to run applications, prompt users through control-panel commands and take input from scales, scanners, and other peripherals – all without a PC or network connection. ZBI 2.0 works with the Zebra Programming Language (ZPL) printer command language so that printers can understand non-ZPL data streams and convert them into labels. In this new release, ZBI 2.0 remains unchanged; only the enablement process has been updated.

Beginning on March 4, 2025, Zebra is introducing an updated method for enabling ZBI 2.0 on printers, still at no charge. This new method eliminates the need for license keys and allows users to generate and download activation files directly. The ZBI Activation File Generator can be accessed through Zebra Basic Interpreter 2.0 | Zebra | Zebra. To create an activation file, simply click the 'Activate' button and log in with your Zebra SSO account. Once logged in, users will be prompted to enter the printer serial numbers to generate an activation file for each printer. Serial numbers can be entered manually or by uploading a plain text file. Detailed instructions are available under the documentation tab at Zebra Basic Interpreter (ZBI) | Zebra. 

With this new method, retaining license keys via email is no longer necessary. Any activation files generated will be readily available for download each time a user logs into the ZBI Activation File Generator with their Zebra SSO account. For those who have previously enabled ZBI 2.0 using license keys, it will not be necessary to reactivate through the new process. However, please note that previous license keys that have been obtained but not used will become invalid as the previous activation process within ZBI Key Manager will no longer exist. This update of ZBI Key Manager will occur soon after the release of the ZBI Activation File Generator.

ZBI Key Manager/ZDownloader will no longer be used to activate ZBI 2.0 on Zebra printers. Instead, activation files can now be downloaded from the ZBI Activation File Generator. Activation files are in ZPL format. Once downloaded, users can send these activation files to their printers using various Zebra Printer Software tools, such as Printer Setup Utilities, ZDesigner Windows printer drivers, and Printer Profile Manager Enterprise (PPME). This streamlined process enhances ease of use and ensures a more efficient activation experience.