WMZ file format
| Extension | .wmz |
| Category | images |
| Description | The WMZ file format is a compressed version of the Windows Metafile (WMF), a vector graphics format developed by Microsoft for Windows. WMZ is commonly used to store skins (themes) for Windows Media Player. WMZ files are based on the WMF format but are compressed using the Gzip algorithm to reduce file size and enhance efficiency during transmission over a network or storage on disk. Inside a compressed WMZ file, you will typically find a standard WMF file containing vector images, bitmap images, and text information. WMF files can also include commands for displaying graphics on a screen or printer. Apart from static images, WMZ can incorporate interactive elements like buttons and sliders, which are utilized to create custom skinned interfaces in Windows Media Player. While WMZ files are mainly used for altering the appearance of multimedia players, they can also be used for exchanging complex graphics documents that offer high image quality with low data volume. Due to its specificity and potential security risks, the WMZ format is not as widely used as other graphic formats and is mostly employed in specialized applications. |
| Technical details | The WMZ file format is a compressed metaformat file that is used in Microsoft applications, specifically Windows Media Player for skins. Here are some technical details about WMZ files: - File Extension: .wmz - File Type: Compressed Windows Metafile (WMF) - Compression Method: Gzip, which helps reduce the size of WMZ files compared to their uncompressed WMF counterparts. - Content: WMZ files can contain vector images, bitmap images, and commands to control graphics output. - Usage: They are commonly used to create skins in programs like Windows Media Player. - Opening Software: WMZ files can be opened with software that supports the WMF format after they have been extracted from their compressed state. - Security: It is important to be cautious when dealing with WMZ files from unknown sources, as they could potentially contain harmful code. - Interactivity: These files may include user interface elements and scripts to provide interactive features for skins. Although WMZ files are not as commonly used in modern applications, they still play a significant role in systems that require vector graphics user interfaces. |