The Economic Times

In 1962, James West and Gerhard Sessler patented a small, low-cost microphone; their design is estimated to be used in 90% of microphones made today

In 1962, inventors James West and Gerhard Sessler revolutionized audio technology by patenting the electret microphone. This innovation quickly moved from research labs into the hands of consumers, being widely embraced in various electronic devices. Its compact, cost-effective design propelled the growth of personal tech. Today, electret microphones, renowned for their resilience and audio fidelity, dominate the market, constituting around 90 percent of all microphones produced globally.