Patent ID: 8208670

Claim:
A portable device comprising: a. an electronic module that provides audio recording and playback functions and includes: i. at least one integrated circuit having associated memory storage, ii. a microphone, iii. a speaker, and iv. a power source; b. a bulbous portion that substantially encapsulates the electronic module and is configured so that the device includes: i. a largest spanning dimension of less than about 60 mm and ii. a substantially continuously contoured outer surface that is free of any display; and c. one or more exposed user controls that: i. laterally project from at least one side of the bulbous portion, ii. signally communicate with the electronic module, and iii. penetrate through the bulbous portion wherein the microphone includes an upper surface that resides below and is spaced apart from an upper surface of the speaker, and the microphone is spaced apart from an outer surface of a cone of the speaker.