Definition: microcassette

A smaller version of the analog audio cassette. Introduced in 1969 by Olympus, microcassettes were widely used for recording dictation and messages in a pocket-sized device. Because the recording speed is slower and the tape is thinner than an audio cassette, a tiny microcassette can hold 30 minutes per side. A dictation feature of many devices was variable playback speed.

Microcassettes were also used to record messages in some telephone answering machines; however, in the 1990s, tape-based recorders of all kinds evolved into solid state devices. See voice recorder, audio cassette and cassette.

Microcassette and Recorder

The red and white microcassette is resting on an audio cassette for size comparison. Both use 1/8" wide tape, but the tape is thinner in the microcassette. Microcassette recorders are small enough to slip into a shirt pocket.