In this paper, we report a metal/Al 2 O 3 /ZrO 2 /SiO 2 /Si (MAZOS) structure with a ZrO 2 charge-trapping layer for non-volatile memory application. The superiority of this device over the traditional metal/Al 2 O 3 /Si 3 N 4 /SiO 2 /Si (MANOS) devices is much better data retention and enhanced program/erase efficiency. The MAZOS device exhibits excellent memory characteristics, including a large memory window of 7.1 V under ±11 V capacitance-voltage sweep, and a greatly improved data retention (only 16% charge loss for 10 years time) along with good endurance. The MAZOS device has a strong potential for future high-performance non-volatile memory application.