Smaller SIM Format Standardized

New submitter mk1004 writes "ETSI members have approved a new, smaller SIM format. 'The fourth form factor (4FF) card will be 40% smaller than the current smallest SIM card design, at 12.3mm wide by 8.8mm high, and 0.67mm thick. It can be packaged and distributed in a way that is backwards compatible with existing SIM card designs. The new design will offer the same functionality as all current SIM cards.' Nokia is not happy about the decision, as they believe their version was superior, but they say they're prepared to license the patents essential to the standard."

Comments

Re:So what was better about Nokia's design?

[Anonymous Coward]

Even though it maintained incompatibility with all prior standards (just like the Apple version), it could be changed without voiding the warranty.

Re:Comes with tweezer and magnifying glass

[magarity]

Exactly - isn't there a point of diminishing returns? Are the current ones really so huge that it's causing a noticeable impact on costs that these even smaller ones will make a difference?

Re:Comes with tweezer and magnifying glass

[TheRaven64]

You can get phones that take up to three SIMs simultaneously. If you're travelling between a small number of countries a lot then these are a good option.