Micronesian languages are known for their lack of plain labial consonants; they have instead two series, palatalized and labio-velarized labials, similar to the related Loyalty Islands languages.

According to Jackson (1983, 1986) the languages group as follows:[1] The family appears to have originated in the east, likely on Kosrae, and spread westwards.

Kosrae appears to have been settled from the south, in the region of Malaita (Solomon Islands) or in northern Vanuatu.

Kevin Hughes (2020) revises Jackson's classification, especially with regards to the position of Nauruan, who states that there is no compelling argument from classifying Nauruan apart from other Micronesian languages.

He merely states "that this is something that could well be further investigated, even if only to confirm that Micronesian languages did not originate in the Loyalties.