xMEMS Labs has introduced what it claims is the world’s thinnest all-silicon microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) speaker designed for smartwatches, fitness bands and other wrist-worn wearables.
Called the Sycamore-W, the MEMS measures 1 millimeter thick in a 20 mm x 4 mm form factor that reduces speaker package volume by 70%. This will allow engineers to design slimmer, sleeker form factors with full-range sound, xMEMS said.
“As the wrist becomes a key interface for ears-free, hands-free AI interactions, Sycamore-W empowers manufacturers to deliver premium audio in smaller, lighter, more durable devices,” said Mike Housholder, VP of marketing and business development at xMEMS Labs.
Why for wearables?
Due to the small form factor of the chip, engineers can integrate more biometric sensors, larger batteries and other electronic components into wearables.
Additionally, compared to legacy coil speakers that are 3 mm to 4 mm thick and weigh as much as 3 grams, the Sycamore-W weighs 150 milligrams, reducing the overall weight of the wearables to improve daily use and comfort.
The MEMS speakers also offer component-level IP-58 rated protection with 10,000 g mechanical shock resistance, which enables continued use during active lifestyle and in outdoors-oriented wearables.
xMEMS Labs said additional Sycamore family variants will likely be announced later this year targeted at other specific applications. The original Sycamore MEMS was designed for smart glasses, open-fit earbuds and laptops.
