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However Apple is working on a solution. It has filed a patent application for a technology developed by Tony Fadell, a leading iPod engineer. The patent describes a Compact Memory Disc Adapter that fits around the 8cm disc to enlarge the diameter to a standard 12 cm size.

Fadell suggests two possible configurations: one where the adapter comes in two halves that are folded out, another where four quarters are clicked together. Though whichever system were to be adopted would be smaller than large, fixed

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adapters that are currently shipped with some 8cm discs.

"This solution does nothing to reduce shipping costs since the rigid adapter (with its larger footprint) must be shipped with the reduced diameter disc and therefore a standard sized shipping container must be used to accommodate both the rigid adapter and reduced diameter disc," Fadell notes.

"What is needed is a cost effective method and apparatus for shipping reduced diameter discs that assures the end user will be able to use the reduced diameter disc in a slot drive designed exclusively for a standard diameter disc."

In fact Fardell's adapter, when collapsed, is smaller than the 8cm disc.

For more information see US Patent Application 20070271577.