Windows Phone Thoughts: Hitachi Shrinks the Microdrive

"Hitachi will work on its one-inch Microdrive to create a 20-percent smaller version with the highest capacity at 8-10 gigabytes (GB) of storage. The new smaller Microdrive is called baby "Mikey" for its diminutive size. With a physical dimension of 40 x 30 x 5 mm, it is designed for the smallest handheld devices with needs for ample, yet, affordable storage. In addition, through an integrated chipset, "Mikey" will enable up to a 40-percent reduction in power consumption over the existing Microdrive product."



Geekzone and Engadget both have more details about this. In addition to the reduction in power consumption, Hitatchi has also beefed up the shock-resistance of the units with a claimed 100% operating-shock improvement over current Microdrives. So, the new Microdive is smaller, uses less power and offers much higher capacities than current Microdrives. What's not to like? I'm sure you guys can think of a good use for these. 8)

Update: PCWorld are reporting that the reduction in size will mostly come from replacing the Compact Flash interface with a ZIF (zero insertion force) connector favoured by consumer electronics makers. I hope they still release a CF version though.