Sony Europe is set to introduce what's possibly the world's smallest 2GB thumbstick drive, the MICRO VAULT Tiny. It's just 14.5x30mm, weighs 1.5g and has the largest-capacity of a four-strong range. Indeed, these USB devices are so small that we might better describe them as thumbnail drives.
Quite why anyone would want a drive almost small enough to be eaten by a hypochondriac along with a handful of pills we're not sure. And Sony rather spoils any arguments it might make by its need to supply a rubber carrying case fitted with with a clip and strap for "safe transport" - something that bangs up the overall size considerably. But Sony appears merely to have taken the lead in a quest that others have already embarked on.
Where Sony does differ, though, is in styling its offerings to appeal directly to women, judging by the colour range and the design of the carrying case. But perhaps that's just us being sexist. Take a look at the shot below, though (click for a larger image), and make up your own mind.
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Click for larger image
Click for larger imageUnless Sony is going to play that maddening dollar-equals-pound game, there are no direct clues yet about UK pricing. However, the 2GB model sells for $110 off the Sony USA site, where the three smaller-capacity models are also offered - 1GB ($65), 512MB ($45) and 256MB ($30) - each in its own distinct colour.
Click for larger imageThoughts? Be pleased to hear them in the HEXUS.community.
Update - July 6, 01:40
Misco UK, we're told, will soon be offering these MICRO VAULT Tiny drives for sale.
VAT-inclusive prices will be:
256MB: £15.26
512MB: £25.15
1GB: £29.36
2GB: £52.86
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Sony Europe - home page
