A key factor in developing an audio system for smartworn devices is understanding the unique demands of these devices. Smartworn devices require an audio system that is not only compact, but also reliable and capable of delivering high-quality sound. To address this challenge, xMEMS Labs has released Sycamore-W, a new addition to the company’s Sycamore near-field MEMS speaker family. The Sycamore-W was engineered specifically for smartworn devices such as wrist-worn wearables, fitness bands, and smart watches.
Redefined Compact Design
Sycamore-W extends xMEMS’ commitment to µFidelity audio in space-constrained mobile form factors. Measuring just 1 millimeter thin in a 20 x 4mm form factor, Sycamore-W reduces speaker package volume by 70%, enabling dramatically slimmer, sleeker form factors while delivering high-quality, full-range sound.
- Slashing speaker size is crucial for smartworn devices, which have limited space for components. The Sycamore-W’s 1mm thin profile provides the space for biometric sensors and larger batteries, making it ideal for devices like smartwatches and fitness bands.
- Thin speaker design also reduces strain on the device and provides comfort for the wearer. Compared to legacy coil speakers that are typically 3 to 4mm thick and weigh up to 3 grams, Sycamore-W’s 150mg weight is significantly lighter.
Robust Performance and Silicon Durability
The new solution maintains the same solid-state durability that xMEMS speakers are known for, with component-level IP58-rated protection and robust 10,000g mechanical shock resistance. These qualities make it ideal for active lifestyle wearables and outdoor-oriented smartwatches and fitness bands.
- Compared to legacy coil speakers, Sycamore-W is more efficient, reliable, and requires less power to operate.
- Robust and reliable performance enables wearables to be worn during outdoor activities such as running, swimming, or hiking.
Optimized for Wrist-Worn Devices
Sycamore-W has a 4mm wide x 1mm thin profile, making it an ideal solution for wrist-based wearables. It minimizes incursion into the watch cavity, enabling designers to integrate more biometric sensors and larger batteries into the device.
- Design Considerations
- Biometric sensors
- Large batteries
“Sycamore-W redefines audio for smart watches, combining compact design with robust performance to meet the demands of next-generation wearables,” said Mike Housholder, xMEMS VP of Marketing and Business Development.
| Form Factor | 20 x 4 x 1.28mm |
| Weight | 150mg |
About xMEMS Labs, Inc.
Founded in January 2018, xMEMS Labs is the “X” factor in MEMS with the world’s most innovative piezoMEMS platform. xMEMS has over 245 granted patents worldwide for its technology.
