WALKMAN wrist-watches have not yet been invented, but the market is already moving in that direction with the release of a mini-compact disc and player.
The world of technology, obsessed with making hardware smaller, has come up with the compact compact disc - for those who really hate lugging around bulky stereo equipment.
''The main advantages of the mini-disc are its compact shape and size, its portability and its durability,'' said Ian Ching, Sony marketing officer.
''Like a compact disc, it has 74 minutes of recording space, even though it is only 6.4 centimetres and is a lot smaller than a CD.
''It is a lightweight, optical disc, which means it will give high-quality digital sound.'' Sony invented the mini-disc in Japan and released it in November 1992. Three months later it was in Hong Kong.
Selling for $100, the mini-disc is not expected to outsell the CD - yet.