Hitachi has announced a 4 GB Microdrive. The Microdrive 3K4 series is the world's smallest hard disk drive, weighing just over a half an ounce (16 grams) and measuring one-inch in diameter. designed to the CompactFlash Type II industry standard and is compatible with a wide variety of devices that accept CF+ Type II media.

The data storage available on the 4GB Microdrive is roughly equal to a full-length DVD movie or 75 hours of high-quality digital music. In addition to offering more storage than current Microdrives, this next generation is 70% faster.

Hitachi will continue to offer its current 1GB Microdrive and is planning to introduce a 2GB version of the Microdrive later this year. The company expects the new 4GB Microdrive to be available this November for $499.