Japanese manufacturer Toshiba has announced the completion of its new higher capacity iPod micro hard drive.

Expanding upon last year’s 60GB version currently installed in the iPod photo, Toshiba has now unveiled the more advanced 80GB capacity iPod.

The new device is expected to be marketed by Apple although confirmation has not yet been offered.

According to the Register, the 80GB HDD will be manufactured in a 7.9 x 5.4 x 0.8cm casing, utilising innovations that could in time lead to thinner mid-range iPods.

The new drive will revolve at 4200rpm, offering an average seek time of 15ms and operate across an Ultra DMA 100 interface.