2003 Technology

When it comes to what's hot in the gadget world, the trend is micro-mini, portable and sleek. "They have all the functions of larger products, but they are really for people on the go and they're very slim, cool designs," says Al Griffin from Sound & Vision Magazine. Below is a look at some products about to hit store shelves that fit the bill:

Key Ring Modules

Phillips is set to launch key ring modules that are MP3 players and digital cameras. They are so tiny you can put both on a key ring, hang them around your neck, or tuck them into a pocket.

The MP3 key ring plays music files that you download from the Internet or take from your CD collection.

The camera is about the size of a cigarette lighter and takes pictures good enough to capture the moment: "It's pretty good. It's good for the web or sending photos via email to a friend," says Griffin.

How much do they cost? They're expected to be priced under $100 and available in May.

Pint-Sized Camera

If you want a camera with more bells and whistles, Pentax may have the answer. "The new Pentax is one of the smallest high resolution high quality digital cameras that I have ever seen," says Michael McNamara from Popular Photography and Imaging Magazine

The camera not only takes pictures, but it can also record video and sound clips. How small is it? The company touts that it is so small it can fit into a small mint box.

This camera should be available this month and is priced right under $400.

Personal Digital Assistants

Did you ever want a device that could not only keep track of your schedule and phone numbers, but also take pictures and video clips? How about one that fits in the "palm" of your hand? Sony has a personal digital assistant coming out on the market right now that does all of this plus more. You can use it to check email, have a slide presentation at work, and hook it up to your home computer.

All this high technology does come with a price. It's priced around $800. "If you combine all the functions that it has, if bought, those items separately, it would add up and to more than that," says McNamara.

Movies on the Go

When it comes to portable DVD players, Griffin says there's a new one coming out by Toshiba perfect for families. It's bright colored and has rubber handles that protect the device in case it's dropped by you or a "little one."

The device will be about $600 and available in April.

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