# Maxell revival of UD-60U cassette tapes

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/maxell-revival-of-ud-60u-cassette-tapes
> Updated: 2026-08-31T15:06:20.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2.

Maxell, in collaboration with Japanese retailer Disk Union, has resumed production of the UD-60U Type I iron oxide cassette tapes. The revival includes the availability of black and red versions in Japan.

This production resurgence follows a significant surge in consumer interest, with Google Trends reporting a 5,000% increase in searches for cassette tapes over a one-month period. The trend is attributed to nostalgia and interest from Generation Z, who view the format as a collectible alternative to streaming. In the United States, cassette sales have grown from 81,000 units in 2015 to an estimated 450,000 in 2025, supported by major artists releasing albums on the medium.

The UD-60U series, which originally debuted in 1970, was historically a competitor to brands like TDK and Sony and was used for storing programs on 8-bit computer systems. The new special series is priced at 990 yen per unit, with three-packs available for 2,900 yen.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-31: Maxell and Disk Union revive legendary UD-60U audio cassettes

Maxell and Disk Union are re-releasing the legendary UD-60U audio cassette series, targeting collectors and enthusiasts of analog sound and retro computing technology.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/maxell-and-disk-union-revive-legendary-ud-60u-audio-cassettes

### 2026-08-28: Maxell resumes production of UD-60U cassette tapes

Maxell has resumed production of the UD-60U cassette tape in Japan as interest in physical music formats surges among collectors and younger generations.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/maxell-resumes-production-of-ud-60u-cassette-tapes

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Cite as: Maxell revival of UD-60U cassette tapes. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/maxell-revival-of-ud-60u-cassette-tapes