In Taiwan, there are very diverse shapes and styles of portable pen drives, such as sports cars, pandas, and animated characters and even shapes representing local Taiwanese folk beliefs, such as the God of Wealth and animals in the Chinese zodiac. There is also a miniature one the size of a NT$1 coin.

Nevertheless, on the basis of news from flash drive manufacturers CNA pointed out that the highest selling item is still the traditional basic portable pen drive.

Manufacturers commented that different external shapes and designs were aimed at the demands of different consumer groups. For instance, miniature portable drives were launched targeting users who often went out with notebook computers because the drives were small and easy to carry.

However, manufacturers also pointed out that the target markets are smaller for flash drives intended for specific groups, and their sales are not particularly impressive. On the other hand, because traditionally-shaped basic pen drives are accepted by the majority of consumers, they are strong selling products.

(TR/ Phil Sweeney)