In a recent press release, Sony revealed the HDR-TG1 Handycam. Currently billed as the world's smallest full HD camcorder, this unit will probably make life a lot easier for those who insist on always toting their video camera wherever they go.

This ten-ounce camcorder measures 1.3 inches wide, 4.7 inches tall, and 2.5 inches deep. It has a titanium body and hard coating and takes 1920 by 1080 HD video as well as 4 megapixel digital photos.

The Sony HDR-TG1 also has face detection which allows it to automatically adjust focus, exposure, color control, and flash control for up to eight stored faces.

Professional photographers will probably want to know that this unit is equipped with a high-quality Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar 10x optical zoom lens and a 2-megapixel ClearVid CMOS sensor with Exmor-derived technology which minimizes picture noise.

If you plan on picking up the HDR-TG1, expect it to ship to retail stores the May with supplied accessories for US$ 900. In addition, a travel kit which contains a battery, travel charger and pouch will also be sold for US$ 100. Finally, expect to shell out another US$ 50 if you want a custom-fit case with brushed metal accents.