Small is the new big. Just look at cell phones, cars, and purses. Following the downsizing trend, endoscopic device developer Medigus (Omer, Israel) today announced it has developed an itsy-bitsy video camera—the smallest in the world, the company claims.

Designed for small-diameter endoscopic devices, the 0.99-mm Medigus cameras feature image resolution of 45,000 pixels. They will be used in the company’s own endoscopic devices as well as sold to third-party manufacturers.

 "We are excited to release our second generation of disposable cameras to further progress the medical endoscopic field," Medigus CEO Elazar Sonnenschein said in a press release. "Medical procedures that have not been possible until now become possible with the world's smallest camera. The advanced technology provides the medical community and patients with safe, quality and cost-effective treatment."

When manufactured and sold in bulk, cost is low enough to make the cameras practical for use in disposable devices, the company says. They have applications in cardiology, orthopedics, gastroenterology, gynecology, otolaryngology, bronchoscopy, and robotic surgery.

The tiny cameras could also bring advancements in insect cinema. Look for movies shot by ants coming to a theater near you.

—Jamie Hartford