''For other uses of codec, see Codec (disambiguation).

The Codec is a two-way nano-tech radio with which the player can communicate with support characters and save the game in the Metal Gear Solid series of computer games. It was devised by Mei Ling. Because it stimulates the small bones of the ear, only the wearer of the codec is able to hear what is being said through the codec.

In Metal Gear Solid 3, the radio used isn't really a Codec, as it doesn't use nanotechnology and has a microphone.

To make the codec more interesting, different features have been added to it in different games. For example, in Metal Gear Solid 2 by pressing R1 or R2 you can hear the current player character (Solid Snake for the Tanker chapter, or Raiden in the Plant chapter) is thinking about who he is talking to. In Snake Eater some hilarious conversations can occur if different situations are in progress.

The Codec is used for saving the game and in Metal Gear Solid 3, can be used to remove the alert status, listen to a healing radio station, or even call for fire support (meaning rockets fall from the sky at random locations across the map).

Metal Gear | Fictional technology