A dictation machine is a device used to record spoken words for later transcription. It allows users to dictate notes, letters, or other documents without needing to type. These machines can be handheld or desktop models and often use magnetic tape or digital storage to save recordings. In modern times, many people use software applications or smartphones for dictation, which can convert speech to text in real-time. This technology is particularly useful for professionals like doctors and journalists, who need to capture information quickly. The evolution of dictation machines has made it easier to document thoughts and ideas efficiently.