Sony has introduced the HDR-TG1 Handycam, a midget-sized (dwarf, if you’ve seen In Bruges) high-definition video camera, weighing in at just ten ounces

Despite its tiny size, it is a full-featured camcorder that can record 1920 x 1080 HD video and 4-megapixel digital photos directly to Sony Memory Stick PRO Duo or PRO Duo Mark2 media cards. According to Sony, it’s the world’s smallest full HD camcorder

Face Detection

The HDR-TG1 also incorporates face detection technology for both video and still image. It can identify up to eight faces in the camcorder’s 2.7-inch touch panel LCD screen, and automatically adjust focus, exposure, color control for natural-looking skin tones, and when photos are taken, flash control.

The model also allocates more encoding bits to a detected face during the encoding process for the best possible picture when people are the subjects.

Audio is recorded in Dolby Digital 5.1-channel surround sound and features a built-in zoom microphone.

The HDR-TG1 camcorder will ship with supplied accessories in May for about $900.

The HDR-TG1, and similar camcorders, are really pushing down the entry level for HD, putting it into the range of most podcasters.

Can you imagine carrying your HD camera in your pocket?