Byte-Size USB Fun

By Wilson Rothman

Here's some news for those who don't spend all their free time in CompUSA: USB gadgets (known as key rings) are hot. These miniature devices--typically digital cameras or MP3 players--plug directly into your USB port for easy up-and downloading. They're cute and trendy and getting more useful all the time. This summer Philips is introducing two models for Mac or PC priced from $99 to $149.

The company's MP3 Key Ring comes in 64-MB and 128-MB sizes--just right for a short music playlist. Some versions even sport an innovative lanyard with volume and track-skip controls woven right into the fabric.

Philips' 1.3-megapixel camera (64 MB or 128 MB) weighs in at 1.2 oz. It may be light on options, but it's every bit the James Bond spy cam your camera phone wishes it could be. --By Wilson Rothman