Theoretical and experimental investigations have been conducted to determine the feasibility of microwave devices which utilize the remanent magnetization characteristics of dimensionally thin magnetic materials. A technique for producing phase‐shift (both reciprocal and nonreciprocal) was theoretically developed and proven experimentally. By investigating the thin sample geometry (ferrite slabs 5 to 20 mils thick), we had the opportunity to use commercially available materials to prove the theory and at the same time extend it to a device configuration which is topologically close to the thin film. Phase‐shifting elements composed of a meander line circuit deposited on a thin ferrite slab have been built and tested. By a modification of the meander‐line‐circuit dimensions and the direction of the ferrite magnetization relative to the circuit, both reciprocal and nonreciprocal devices can be made. A microstrip arrangement of the device was adopted so that the theory could be proved in a structure which closely approximates the ultimate thin‐film application.