Like the Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini and HTC One Mini, Sony's Xperia Z1 Compact is a smaller reimagining of its latest top-of-the-range smartphone.

However, unlike its competitors, Sony has kept this phone's insides intact, despite its smaller size.

That means that potential owners get an Android handset with a massive quad-core Snapdragon 800 processor and a glorious 20-megapixel rear-facing camera.

The only compromise is that the Compact version has a smaller screen (4.3in) than the existing Z1 (5in, full HD) and a slightly smaller battery. Otherwise the two handsets are identical.

The Xperia Z1 Compact even has the same water and dust resistance ratings as its big brother.

During its reveal at the International CES, Sony went to great lengths to outline that the handset is not a ‘mini' nor is the device to be seen as a compromise. Other ‘mini' flagships currently on the market have much less powerful processors and poorer cameras, all decisions that Sony has consciously avoided.

However, there is one thing that the compact version offers that the full-size Z1 doesn't offer — a choice of colours. The handset, which will go on sale in February (when Sony will also confirm pricing), will be available in lime green, white, red and black.

As well as unveiling its latest compact flagship, Sony also announced that the full-sized Z1 will finally be launching in the US and will hit the shelves on Jan 22. — ©AFP/Relaxnews 2014