Flip Video just keeps getting smaller

Flip Video Mino: just like a phone. Except for the ringing people part
Flip Video Mino: just like a phone. Except for the ringing people part

Pure Digital has taken the videomaking world by storm in America, with its easy to use Flip Video. Cashing in on YouTube, the cam had an instant upload facility to the video site and was the perfect point-and-shoot machine.

With the Flip Video landing in the UK earlier this month, we too can now try out the Flip to see what all the fuss is about. Not to be outdone, though, it seems that another model is already ready for release in the US.

Small shooter

Called the Flip Video Mino – as in minnow and not wino – the diminutive camcorder houses some 2GB flash memory – equivalant to 60 minutes' video – a 1.5in LCD screen and a flip out USB connector, so you can plug it straight to your computer for uploading. You also get a TV-out connection if you want to show off your footage before it's been edited.

Don't expect to do any fancy camerawork with it, though, as all you get is a basic set of controls and a 2x digital zoom.

The Flip Mino is said to be the size of an average mobile phone, and its looks reflect this. You can get one now in the US for $180 (£90). There's no word on a UK launch, but don't expect it any time soon, as we've only just managed to get hold of its bigger brother, the Flip Video.

Marc Chacksfield

Marc Chacksfield is the Editor In Chief, Shortlist.com at DC Thomson. He started out life as a movie writer for numerous (now defunct) magazines and soon found himself online - editing a gaggle of gadget sites, including TechRadar, Digital Camera World and Tom's Guide UK. At Shortlist you'll find him mostly writing about movies and tech, so no change there then.